GARRY Lyon has opened up about his mental health battle in a candid interview following his 12 months out of the spotlight.

The former Melbourne champion was thrust into the headlines when it emerged he was in a relationship with the ex-wife of his best mate Billy Brownless.

In a 37-minute interview on his new breakfast radio program, Lyon confirmed he had never intended to return to his role alongside the Geelong legend at The Footy Show.

"I wasn't going to go back and do The Footy Show," he said.

Lyon explained that managing his workload was a priority when an eight-year battle with depression came to a head during 2015.

"I'm not saying my life stopped, but it did come to a pretty grinding halt," Lyon told Mike Sheahan on SEN Radio.

He walked away from his jobs at Channel 9, Triple M and as the host of AFL.com.au's Access All Areas.

Lyon revealed that he shunned treatment when he first experienced difficulties with his mental health.

"My first experience with it was probably eight years ago," he said.

"I sought professional help eight years ago, and I went through this process for about two weeks.

"I didn't pursue it, to my detriment."

The 49-year-old said he understood the football public could be cynical about the timing of his retreat from the spotlight.

"There's no doubt when you've been through it it's an offensive thing to hear," Lyon said.

"Your back gets up: What do you want me to do, do you want access to my doctors, do you want my medication, do you want the whole box and dice?"

Lyon said he hadn't spoken to Brownless since before Christmas 2015.

He confirmed that he remained in a relationship with Nicky Brownless and was continuing to take a small amount of medication, and said his priority now was his three boys.

Lyon apologised for the hurt he had caused to his family and the Brownless family.

"I think it's important publicly that I apologise for the hurt and pain that they've been through," he said.  

After the pre-recorded interview had aired, Lyon returned live with his new co-hosts and urged anyone who needs help to "put your hand up" and seek help.

Anyone needing assistance can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or go to beyondblue.org.au