Being Gazza

Book excerpt: The nation has commented on and devoured Paul Gascoigne for years. They read his story. But not until now has anyone ever known what it is really like to wake every morning and be Gazza. What lies behind the cheeky grin, jokes and tears? Here Gascoigne, in the company of his therapist, confronts his demons and takes the reader into the recesses of his mind. The triggers that created explosive genius on the pitch, outrageous antics off it and at times plunged Gascoigne into dark despair are revealed together with the critical moments that influenced his alcoholism, depression, drug abuse, gambling, eating disorders and compulsive behaviour. This is more than the story of one man. It applies to people who face turmoil every day. Recognising a problem and seeking help is the hardest step. Through self-assessment forms and expert advice, any reader who sees a mirror of themselves will be offered help and a way forward. There has never been a book like this. Because there has never been a man like Paul Gascoigne.