For years, athletes were often celebrated for their physical strength while their mental health struggles remained hidden from view. Success was expected. Pressure was accepted. Conversations about anxiety, burnout or emotional well-being rarely made headlines.
That has begun to change.
In recent years, some of the world’s most recognizable athletes have used their platforms to speak openly about mental health. Their stories have helped challenge long-held misconceptions and created opportunities for more honest conversations about what it means to thrive both on and off the field.
Simone Biles: Prioritizing Well-Being
During the Tokyo Olympics, gymnast Simone Biles made headlines when she withdrew from several events to focus on her mental health. Her decision sparked conversations around the world about the pressure athletes face and the importance of recognizing when support is needed. Many praised her willingness to prioritize her well-being, even on one of the biggest stages in sports.
For students, Biles’ story offers an important reminder: strength is not about pushing through every challenge alone. Sometimes, strength means recognizing your limits and taking care of yourself when you need it most.
Michael Phelps: Success Doesn’t Solve Everything
As the most decorated Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps achieved a level of success that few people will ever experience. Yet he has spoken openly about his struggles with depression and anxiety, sharing how therapy became an important part of his journey. Through his advocacy work, he has encouraged others to seek help and helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conversations.
Phelps’ experience challenges a common misconception that success automatically leads to happiness. Students can learn that everyone faces challenges and that asking for help is a sign of self-awareness, not weakness.
Naomi Osaka: Setting Healthy Boundaries
Tennis star Naomi Osaka brought mental health into the spotlight when she stepped away from media obligations and later withdrew from the French Open, explaining that she wanted to protect her mental well-being. She has spoken about experiencing anxiety and the emotional impact that public scrutiny can have on athletes. Her decision sparked global discussion about boundaries, self-care and the pressures that come with high expectations.
For young people, Osaka’s story highlights the importance of understanding personal limits and communicating needs clearly. It also demonstrates that taking care of your mental health should never be viewed as something to be ashamed of.
Bringing the Lessons Back to Students
While it may not be at the Olympics or on the professional stage just yet, most students face pressures of their own. Academic expectations, social relationships and extracurricular commitments can all affect mental well-being.
The stories of Simone Biles, Michael Phelps and Naomi Osaka remind us that mental health is an essential part of overall wellness. By creating environments where students feel safe discussing challenges, seeking support and prioritizing self-care, we can help them develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
After all, true success is not just about performance. It’s about learning how to care for yourself along the way.
The Guardian. “Simone Biles Pulls Out of Olympics All-Around Gymnastics Final to Focus on Mental Health.” 2021.
Chief Healthcare Executive. “Michael Phelps Wants to Change the Mental Health World.” 2022.
UCLA Health. “Tennis Star Naomi Osaka Makes Strong Statement About Workplace Mental Health.” 2021.