Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, has continually shown that mental strength is as crucial as physical prowess in achieving athletic success. In a recent interview, Biles opened up about her relationship with her therapist, the challenges of maintaining her mental health, and the importance she places on therapy as she prepares for the 2024 Summer Olympics. This blog speaks to Biles’ journey, the stigma around mental health in sports, and how therapy has become a cornerstone of her preparation.

Overcoming Shame and Embracing Therapy

In her candid interview, Biles discussed the initial shame she felt about missing therapy sessions. This feeling is not uncommon among athletes, who often feel immense pressure to appear invincible. According to Biles, the turning point came when she realized that neglecting her mental health would ultimately hinder her performance. “I used to feel ashamed if I missed a therapy session,” she admitted, “but now I understand that my mental health is as important as my physical health.”

The shame associated with seeking mental health support is a significant barrier for many athletes. A study by Rice et al. (2016) found that athletes often fear being perceived as weak if they seek psychological help. This stigma can prevent them from addressing critical mental health issues, ultimately affecting their performance and well-being.

The Role of Therapy in Biles’ Olympic Preparation

Biles has set a singular public goal for the 2024 Olympics: to continue her therapy. This commitment underscores the importance she places on mental health in her training regimen. “Therapy has been a game-changer for me,” Biles stated. “It’s not just about talking through problems; it’s about building resilience and learning how to cope with the pressures of competition.”

Research supports the benefits of therapy for athletes. A study by Gulliver, Griffiths, and Christensen (2012) highlights that therapy can help athletes manage stress, improve focus, and develop coping strategies for high-pressure situations. For Biles, these benefits are crucial as she prepares to compete on the world’s biggest stage once again.

The Broader Impact of Biles’ Advocacy

Biles’ openness about her mental health struggles and the importance of therapy has had a profound impact on the sports community. By speaking out, she has helped to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage other athletes to seek the help they need. This advocacy is crucial in a field where the pressure to perform can often overshadow the need for mental well-being.

Biles’ emphasis on mental health aligns with a growing body of research that underscores the importance of psychological support for athletes. For instance, the study by Henriksen et al. (2020) found that comprehensive mental health support can significantly enhance athletes’ performance and well-being.

Conclusion

Simone Biles’ journey underscores the critical role of mental health in athletic success. By prioritizing therapy and openly discussing her mental health struggles, Biles is not only preparing herself for the 2024 Olympics but also paving the way for other athletes to do the same. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that true strength lies in recognizing the importance of mental health and seeking the support needed to thrive.

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References

Gulliver, A., Griffiths, K. M., & Christensen, H. (2012). Barriers and facilitators to mental health help-seeking for young elite athletes: A qualitative study. BMC Psychiatry, 12(1), 157. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-244X-12-157

Henriksen, K., Schinke, R., Moesch, K., McCann, S., Parham, W. D., Larsen, C. H., & Terry, P. (2020). Consensus statement on improving the mental health of high-performance athletes. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 18(5), 553-560. https://doi.org/10.1080/1612197X.2019.1570473

Rice, S. M., Purcell, R., De Silva, S., Mawren, D., McGorry, P. D., & Parker, A. G. (2016). The mental health of elite athletes: A narrative systematic review. Sports Medicine, 46(9), 1333-1353. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-016-0492-2