Cory Paterson, who famously battled depression, now has new start at Tigers

CORY Paterson, who famously battled depression, has been to hell and back - and we're not talking about Northern England.

HE'S been to hell and back - and we're not talking about Northern England.

In a distressing era where an average of one player from each club is suspected to be suffering from depression, Cory Paterson has returned to the NRL as an example to many.

The Wests Tigers recruit commenced pre-season training this week in a bid to re-establish himself among the elite after an 18-month stint for Hull KR.

But after bravely revealing a battle with depression, during which he even contemplated suicide in 2009, Paterson is a standard bearer for younger peers who are confronting their demons.

The 26-year-old is painfully aware of the twin tragedies that rocked rugby league last season, with the death of former North Queensland teammate Alex Elisala hitting him particularly hard.

"It's so sad and hard hearing things like that, particularly because I knew Leki (Elisala) from when I was at the Cowboys," Paterson said.

"When I spoke out, I didn't do it for anyone else. I just didn't want to lie to myself and the people around me. I'm going good now."

Cory Paterson at Wests Tigers training.

Paterson revealed he's been approached by "one or two" players for counsel.

"I'm not going to name names and I don't like to push my experiences on to other people," he said.

"But if people come to me for help, then I'll always try to do what I can.

"Hindsight is such a beautiful thing. When you're down in the dumps you just can't appreciate that things aren't as bad as they seem.

"I've learned that it's never as bad as it seems, and also that I'm extremely lucky to be able to train everyday and just play football."

Cory Paterson at Wests Tigers training.

The star Knights junior shifted to Townsville midway through 2011 after learning he was unwanted by Wayne Bennett, and linked with Hull KR less than 12 months later.

The turbulent period also saw Paterson turn to Islam, but he declined to discuss his faith. "It's something personal that I prefer not to talk about," Paterson said.

Towering at 195cm, the second-rower will add some much-needed intimidation to the Tigers. "The Tigers were the first opportunity that came up, so I thought I'd take it rather than drag things out," he said.