Simone Biles Credits Therapy for Overcoming Olympic Pressure

Simone Biles, the renowned Olympic gymnast, has shared that therapy played a crucial role in her life, stating it “saved” her amidst the intense pressure that accompanied her early success. At just 16 years old, she burst onto the international stage by winning a gold medal at the 2013 World Gymnastics Championships in Belgium. Since then, she has become the most decorated gymnast in history, yet the weight of her achievements brought challenges that necessitated professional support.

Reflecting on her journey, Biles emphasized the difficulties of achieving success at such a young age. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Spain, she expressed, “Yes, [success became a burden]. Achieving success so young was very difficult.” The scrutiny from the public and the expectations surrounding her performance contributed to a significant emotional strain.

As Biles’s fame grew, so did the pressure to maintain her image and performance. “Suddenly, everyone is watching you, telling you how to act, how to speak. I was afraid of disappointing them,” she explained. This overwhelming sense of responsibility led her to seek therapy, a decision she now considers vital for her mental health and overall well-being.

Biles noted the importance of understanding and managing the pressures associated with her career. “That’s why I started going to therapy. I needed to learn how to handle the pressure, how to remain true to myself,” she said. The gymnast believes that prioritizing her mental health transformed her, both as an athlete and a person.

Her candid discussion about mental health highlights a growing recognition of the importance of psychological well-being in sports. Biles’s openness about her struggles aims to destigmatize mental health issues, encouraging others to seek help when needed.

In recent years, Biles has been an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly following her withdrawal from several events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Her decision to prioritize her mental health over competition sparked a global conversation about the pressures faced by athletes.

The journey of Simone Biles serves as a reminder that success does not come without its challenges. Her experience underscores the vital role that mental health plays in achieving and sustaining excellence in sports. As she continues to inspire future generations, Biles exemplifies resilience and the importance of seeking help in navigating the complexities of fame and success.