SINCE Michael Phelps went public with his mental health problems, athletes and entertainers around the world have been admitting to similar issues.
Black American tennis prodigy Coco Gauff, who was thrust into the limelight six years ago when she defeated 7- time Grand Slam winner, Venus Williams, has also spoken openly about her mental health challenges.
Guaff, who was just 15 years old when she beat her ‘idol’ in straight sets, said she felt pressured by all the publicity and the increased expectations following the match.
She discussed these feelings with fellow tennis star, Japanese Naomi Osaka and
world-renowned gymnast, Simone Biles, who both stepped away from their respective sports to take care of their mental health.
The young American said she has developed strategies to manage her mental well-being, such as breathing techniques during matches to cope with panic attacks.
She retains perspective by considering herself privileged to be playing, professionally, the sport she loves and has come to realise that she needs to play, not for the expectations of others but for her own enjoyment.
She has become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, stating that it is ” invisible but it’s a very real issue”.
Earlier this year fellow tennis player, German Alexander Zverev, confessed to feelings of isolation and loneliness and a loss of love for the sport, following his early exit from the Wimbledon tournament.
The German said the feelings extended beyond tennis and admitted that for the first time in his life he contemplated seeking mental health counselling.
He subsequently took a break from tennis, going on vacation with family and friends and on his return he undertook mental health therapy.
Zverev has now resumed playing and has announced that he feels “much better” and on the “right path” to recovery. His improved game and renewed enjoyment are clear evidence that he has indeed benefitted from the therapy.
“I took a longer period of time off after Wimbledon, which I haven’t done in a very long time, which was very needed”, the world’s third-ranked male tennis player said.
” I didn’t do any physical work, I didn’t play tennis for a longer time, which was the best thing for me to do and I enjoyed my time, mentally freed up, got some professional help as well…I’m happy to be back on court”.
What these stories have revealed is the fact that anyone, regardless of fame, wealth or social status, can be plagued by mental health issues.
The solution is not to keep them ‘bottled up’ or hidden but to talk about what is troubling you and, where necessary, seek professional help.