Wayne Lineker is known to many as the king of Ibiza nightlife, a successful businessman, and a familiar face on TV. But behind the glitz of Ocean Beach parties and headlines about his famous family, Wayne has also faced the kind of challenges that many men quietly carry - the pressures of work, the struggles of home life, the strain of personal relationships, and the ongoing battle to protect his own mental health. In this candid Power of Men interview, Wayne opens up about how he’s navigated the darker moments, the lessons he’s learned, and the advice he wants to pass on to men who may feel trapped in silence. 

Men are often under pressure to look strong and in control. How have you personally coped with your own mental health challenges? 

Men often feel like we have to put on a brave face and pretend everything’s fine, especially in my world where the image is all about having fun, being confident, and living the dream. But the truth is, I’ve had times where I’ve really struggled inside. For me, coping has been about admitting that it’s okay not to be okay. I’ve learned that speaking to people I trust makes a huge difference. I also try to take care of myself physically, because fitness and routine help my head massively. I’ve realised that being open and honest about how you’re feeling is actually a sign of strength, not weakness. 

What have been the toughest moments for you, and how did you manage to get through them? 

Some of the toughest moments for me were when my personal and business life collided. Building my business and running venues on my own was extremely high pressured, along with challenges of home life and raising young kids, it really took its toll on me. There were times I felt completely overwhelmed. I had to keep up the party image, be the dad cheering on my sons at football, then a businessman in the public eye. What’s helped me is realising I don’t have to carry it all on my own. Leaning on people I trust, staying committed to my fitness, and learning when to step back have been massive for me. Most importantly, I’ve accepted that it’s okay to admit when you’re struggling - once you do that, it feels like a weight is lifted and you can start moving forward again. 

When the spotlight is on you, do you feel extra pressure to keep up appearances even when you’re struggling inside? 

Yes, in some ways I do feel that pressure. When you’re in the spotlight, people expect you to always be on top form, smiling, confident, and living the life. But at the end of the day, we’re all human. No one can be that person 24/7, and I’ve learned that it’s okay to show a more real side of yourself. In fact, I think people connect more when you’re honest about your struggles, because it shows you’re just like everyone else. 

Away from work, how do you deal with the everyday pressures of home life, relationships, and family responsibilities? 

I deal with the same pressures everyone else does - family, relationships, and trying to keep everything together. In the past, I probably didn’t give enough time to those areas because I was so focused on business. Now I’ve realised that home life and relationships are just as important as work, if not more. Being a present father really helps me; my children are my world. My daughter recently got married, and seeing her marry the love of her life, with my three grandchildren their and being involved in her special day, motivated me even more to focus on what really matters. I try to be present, make time for the people I love, and not let business stress spill into my personal life. It’s not always easy, but finding that balance has made me stronger. At the end of the day, success doesn’t mean much if you don’t have peace at home and the right people around you. 

What would you say to men who feel they have to bottle things up rather than talk? 

I’d say to any man who feels like he has to bottle things up - don’t. I used to think that way too, that keeping it all inside was a sign of strength. But the truth is, it only makes things harder. Talking to someone you trust, whether that’s a mate, family, or even a professional, makes such a difference. You realise you’re not alone, and that in itself is a relief. 

Is there one piece of advice or a mindset that’s helped you most in difficult times that you’d share with our readers? 

One piece of advice that’s helped me most, it’s this: no matter how bad a situation feels, it will pass. You’ve got to remind yourself that nothing stays the same forever. On top of that, look after the basics - your health, your routine, the people you surround yourself with. Those things are your foundation, and they’ll help carry you through the difficult times. Wayne Lineker’s story is proof that even those who appear to be living the dream face struggles behind the scenes. His message is clear: no man should have to carry life’s pressures alone.