As the world turns its gaze to the grand spectacle of the Olympics, we marvel at the physical prowess, dedication, and achievements of athletes from around the globe. However, behind the scenes of every record-breaking performance and dazzling display of skill lies a crucial element that is increasingly coming to the forefront: mental health.
The Invisible Battle: Mental Health in Elite Sports
In recent years, we’ve witnessed several top-tier athletes courageously speak out about their mental health struggles, shedding light on the often overlooked aspect of their training and performance. Understanding the mental health challenges faced by these athletes not only humanizes them but also underscores the importance of mental well-being in achieving peak performance.
The Pressure to Perform: A Double-Edged Sword
The intense pressure to perform at an elite level can take a significant toll on an athlete’s mental health. The expectations from coaches, sponsors, fans, and the athletes themselves create an environment where the fear of failure looms large. This constant pressure can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, which, if left unaddressed, can severely impact an athlete’s performance and overall well-being.
I wanted to take this opportunity of the Olympics to highlight well-known athletes who have bravely sought out mental health care and have spoken about it. Often athletes will incorporate sports psychologists or mental performance coaches to work specifically on executing their sport. These are critical, and for some athletes, it is as simple as “performance anxiety” in a select arena of performance execution. It is important to also make sure we include “the whole human.” Oftentimes, what we are dealing with in life, shows up on the “field.” Mental health care, with knowledge of sport and life as an athlete, can include all components and make sure all bases are covered. This is something I do in my practice, Eva Serber, PhD, LLC.
Here are some examples of olympic athletes who used mental health care to up their game as an athlete and as a person.
Simone Biles: Redefining Strength
Simone Biles, often hailed as the greatest gymnast of all time, made headlines during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics when she prioritized her mental health over competing in several events. By openly discussing her struggles with the “twisties” – a dangerous condition where gymnasts lose their sense of spatial awareness – Biles highlighted the critical need for mental health support in sports. Her decision to step back and prioritize her well-being over medals was a powerful statement that mental health is just as important as physical health in sports. Since then, Biles has returned to competition with renewed focus and balance, winning multiple medals at the 2024 Olympics and demonstrating remarkable resilience and strength.
Michael Phelps: Advocating for Mental Health Awareness
Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, has also been vocal about his battles with depression and anxiety. Phelps has used his platform to advocate for mental health awareness, emphasizing that even those who seem invincible can face significant mental health challenges. His openness has helped break down the stigma surrounding mental health in sports and encouraged others to seek help. Phelps has continued to thrive, contributing to the sports world as a commentator and mentor, and maintaining his advocacy work, which has positively impacted countless athletes and individuals.
Naomi Osaka: Balancing Mental Health and Athletic Excellence
Tennis star Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open in 2021 to focus on her mental health, sparking a global conversation about the pressures faced by athletes. Osaka’s candidness about her anxiety and the importance of self-care resonated with many, illustrating that mental health care is essential for sustained performance and overall well-being. Since then, Osaka has returned to the court with a renewed sense of purpose and balance, achieving significant victories and continuing to be a role model for athletes around the world.
Adam Peaty: Overcoming Anxiety and Depression
British swimmer Adam Peaty, a multiple Olympic gold medalist, has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression. After the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Peaty took a break from swimming to focus on his mental health. This decision was crucial in allowing him to return to the sport with a refreshed mindset. Peaty’s performance at the 2024 Olympics was stellar, adding more medals to his collection and proving that taking care of one’s mental health can lead to improved athletic performance.
Aly Raisman: Healing from Trauma
Aly Raisman, a retired American gymnast and Olympic gold medalist, has been a vocal advocate for mental health and survivor of sexual abuse. Her journey to healing has included therapy and advocacy work, helping others find their voice and strength. Raisman’s dedication to mental health has not only helped her recover but also enabled her to become a powerful advocate for change in the sports community.
The Role of Mental Health Professionals in Sports
As a clinical psychologist specializing in general mental health, sports and performance, and chronic illness, I have seen firsthand the impact that mental health has on an athlete’s performance and life. The psychological pressures that come with high-level competition can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout, affecting not only performance but also personal well-being.
In my private practice, Eva Serber, PhD, LLC, I work with athletes to develop coping strategies, build resilience, and maintain a healthy balance between their sport and personal life. Using evidence-based and research-supported cognitive and behavioral therapies—such as positive psychology, acceptance and commitment therapy, and exposure therapies—I help athletes effectively manage their mental health. These approaches have consistently proven effective in improving performance, health, and overall well-being.
Why Mental Health Matters for Athletes – And Everyone Else
The stories of Biles, Phelps, Osaka, Peaty, and Raisman serve as powerful reminders that mental health is an essential component of overall health. Whether you are an elite athlete or someone striving to achieve your personal best in any area of life, mental well-being is crucial.
If you are facing mental health challenges, know that you are not alone. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide the support and tools you need to navigate these challenges and perform at your best – both on and off the field.
What it may look like for you will depend on your starting place and your desired destination. Psychotherapy, or mental health treatment, regardless of domain, is a personalized therapeutic relationship. Often it will include learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques, examining appraisals of events and developing reappraisals (i.e., different perspective, interpretation), and redirecting towards meaningful, valuable thoughts and activities.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation, visit my website at evaserber.com.
Today prepares you for tomorrow. Anything of value requires ongoing, consistent effort.
– Eva Serber, PhD, LLC
