When Mental Health Is the Big Thing at The Olympic Games

The Olympic Games have long held global attention, displaying the zenith within athletic performances.

However, there is immense pressure on athletes to perform, which can hurt their mental health. Simone Biles, one of the greatest gymnasts in the world, shined a light on this when she bravely decided to sit out in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 and put her mental health first, inspiring a wave of support and understanding.

It was her withdrawal from events due to mental health issues that drew support and admiration. Ashley Hoffman of Team USA Field Hockey added, “To put herself first at the most significant level and let down her country and say that’s OK is such a powerful thing.

The superstar American’s decision laid bare the crucial importance of mental health and prompted discussion about the demands on athletes.

Dr Jonathan Finoff, from the U.S Olympic & Paralympic Committee Chief Medical Officer, said mental health is a universal issue in sports, and we are all fighting it on some level – whether we know it or not. When stars stand up and discuss the mental health issues they’ve battled throughout their careers, it not only lets other athletes at all levels but also in entirely different sports know that this is bigger than just them. It happens across the board. He added, “Please ask for help.

This type of athlete support also helped Biles: “Thank you, Coco,” she responded to a supportive tweet from her fellow Team USA Tennis star. I think a lot of times, as athletes, put our sport above everything else in terms of our well-being, and for her to be like I know I’m not fit or this at the moment, but I need time to take care of myself, come back even more vital, is something Gauff noted.

Regular check-ins and video calls have become necessary to address brain cramps so players can receive essential reinforcement from others. On the ground, Dr. Finoff said 18 clinical psychologists and mental performance professionals are available to help. He said;