Michael Phelps is one of the top Olympic medalists of all time.
Phelps is the most successful and decorated Olympian ever with a total of 28 medals won across five Olympic Games.
He holds the all-time records for Olympic gold medals (23), Olympic gold medals in individual events, and Olympic medals in individual events.
Phelps is widely regarded as the world’s greatest swimmer and is often considered to be one of the greatest athletes of all time. At just 38 years old, he’s a living legend.
And that’s why it’s super cool that, these days, Michael is lending his star power and talent to a cause near and dear to my heart: mental health advocacy and awareness.
I got to spend a morning with Michael Phelps thanks to my freelance writing gig with the Columbus Jewish News. A local charitable organization called Lifetown Columbus brought Phelps in as a keynote speaker at a huge fundraiser to support children with special needs in our community.
So what’s the legend like in person? Phelps is tall and fit, has the wingspan of a pterodactyl and sports a trademark man bun.
He’s also pretty humble and down-to-earth for someone with so many accolades.
When asked how he achieved everything that he has, Phelps shared a simple – though not easy – process. “Dream-Plan-Reach” is his formula for success in both swimming and life. He also opened up about his bad days, including his personal struggles with mental health.
Phelps is passionate about everyone deserving to be their authentic self. He said that for years, he wasn’t his true self. He was afraid to open up about his internal struggles and mental health because he felt alone – like he was the only one who felt that way.
Phelps admitted that he went through dark times where he “didn’t want to be here.” He shared that he remembers his losses far more than his victories.
In an interview I found online, Phelps noted that at the peak of his swimming career, he had a team of ten people looking out for his physical health… but not one was asking about or helping to care for his mental health. He wants to change all that.
What ultimately helped Phelps was opening up, talking about his emotions and getting into therapy. He feels strongly about helping to shine a light on mental health and reducing suicide by opening up, being vulnerable and using his platform to help others to be their authentic selves.
“My anxiety and depression aren’t going away – they’re a part of me and made me who I am. And that’s awesome!” Phelps said.
Phelps also shared that “saving a life is a million times better than winning a gold medal.”
Michael urged the audience to reach out to people who are struggling and to check in and support others. He also shared how he is raising his three sons to talk about their emotions and be vulnerable and open.
Undoubtedly, Phelps will save many lives by being so open about his mental health and what helped him move forward during his hard times.
We can all help to reduce suicide and save lives by following this great Olympian’s advice.
