Warning: This article mentions suicidal thinking
Michael Phelps is known for making waves in an Olympic swimming pool, but the most decorated Olympian has also become known for making waves when it comes to openly talking about mental health.
Phelps, who has been candid about his struggles with depression and suicidal thinking, feels that he’s seen “too many articles” about suicide and declines in mental health well-being amidst the pandemic. Most recently, the swimmer was struck by Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex’s own revelations about suicidal ideation and difficulties with mental health.
Phelps told USA TODAY, “When I see somebody like that, yes, I do feel for them because, again, I know what that feels like and it does break my heart.” He added, “I can understand to some degree what that feels like. It is very scary and you kind of really don’t know what to do.”
For the Olympian, the pandemic has brought mental health conversations to the forefront. “I think we’ve all learned there’s so much more to mental health than we ever knew or ever wanted to talk about, and that was something I was very afraid of,” shares Phelps. “It honestly destroys me every time I read (about suicide) because there are other outlets that we can take and we can try to learn more."
Phelps specifically highlights the difficulties that come with sharing feelings but notes the importance of doing so.
He says, “Getting our thoughts and feelings out in the open is something that changed my life. If there is backlash or anybody does feel like that, your story is your story... You want to be the authentic you as much as you possibly can.”
Additionally, Michael believes that as more public figures and celebrities come forward with discussing topics around mental health or sharing their own stories, these actions will help to end long-standing stigmas around the issue.
“The fact that there are so many celebrities or so many people standing up and talking about the struggles that they have — I think that’s a way for us to really break down that stigma,” notes the swimmer.
Having come forward with his own mental health challenges, the Olympian says it has helped him learn and grow.
“Once we can really take care of our mental health as we do our physical health, then I feel like the opportunities will be endless of what we can really do.”
WATCH MORE: 5 Celebrities Who Are Mental Health Champions
RADIO.COM’s I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-273-8255.
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