What happens when Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is no longer enough to escape what you’re fighting off the mats?
In Episode 92 of The Grapple Of Your Eye Show, BJJ purple belt, combat veteran and multiple-time grappling medallist Sean Harvey returns one year after his first appearance — and this time, the conversation goes far beyond competition, medals and submissions.
Sean speaks openly about his experiences with PTSD, bipolar disorder and mental health, including reaching a point where he had to withdraw from major grappling competitions and step away from BJJ to seek professional treatment.
He discusses his experience of ketamine therapy, working with the VA, processing trauma, recognising when something isn’t right, and why asking for help can be one of the hardest — but most important — things someone can do.
And Sean makes one message absolutely clear:
Jiu-Jitsu is NOT therapy.
BJJ can provide community, friendship, physical activity, purpose and an incredible support network — but Sean explains why the mats should never become a substitute for getting professional mental health support when you need it.
🥋 We also get deep into the Jiu-Jitsu itself:
🔥 Why training LESS actually made Sean BETTER at BJJ
🔥 Going from five days a week and two-a-days to smarter training
🔥 Why recovery matters for recreational grapplers
🔥 Becoming comfortable in bad positions
🔥 Setting micro-goals instead of obsessing over your next belt
🔥 Developing a complete game at purple belt
🔥 Gi vs No-Gi and why Sean has changed his approach
🔥 Why competing isn’t everything anymore
🔥 The explosion of BJJ superfights
🔥 UFC BJJ, ADCC, IBJJF, NAGA and the changing grappling landscape
🔥 Professional grapplers vs everyday hobbyists
🔥 The terrifying level of the next generation of young grapplers
🔥 Being a BJJ dad and knowing when NOT to push your child
🔥 Why losing shouldn’t define young competitors
🔥 Coaching, leg locks and helping other grapplers improve
🔥 Finding friendship, family and community through Jiu-Jitsu
Sean’s perspective on BJJ has changed dramatically. Competition and medals once played a huge role in his grappling journey. Now, success means something different: being present, staying consistent, looking after himself, being there for his children and enjoying Jiu-Jitsu again.
This is a conversation about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combat sports, veterans’ mental health, PTSD, fatherhood, competition, recovery and the importance of knowing when to ask for help.
🎙️ The Grapple Of Your Eye Show – Episode 92
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👇 JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Has Jiu-Jitsu helped you through a difficult period in your life? And do you think the grappling community needs to talk more openly about mental health?
Drop your thoughts in the comments.
Sean’s first appearance on the show…
The Grapple Of Your Eye Show 
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