Simone Biles has opened up about the significant role therapy has played in her life, describing it as a crucial factor in her success and well-being. The 28-year-old Olympic gymnast, who gained international fame after winning a gold medal at the 2013 World Gymnastics Championships in Belgium, revealed that her achievements have often felt like a burden. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Spain, Biles emphasized the pressure that comes with early success.
Reflecting on her journey, Biles stated, “Yes [success became a burden]. Achieving success so young was very difficult. Suddenly everyone is watching you, telling you how to act, how to speak. I was afraid of disappointing them.” To cope with this overwhelming pressure, she sought professional help. “That’s why I started going to therapy. I needed to learn how to handle the pressure, how to remain true to myself. It was a crucial decision: taking care of my mind saved me as an athlete and as a person,” she added.
Biles continues to prioritize her mental health and attends therapy weekly. She describes it as her “safe haven,” a space where she can process both her personal experiences and broader world events. “It keeps me grounded and helps me process everything that’s happening in my life and in the world,” she noted.
The gymnast made headlines in 2021 when she withdrew from the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics to focus on her mental and physical health. Biles firmly believes this decision was necessary, despite the criticism she faced. “First and foremost, the main reason I decided to stop was for my physical health. I didn’t want to go out there and get injured, but also for my mental health,” she explained. “I knew it was the right thing to do, even if the world didn’t understand. It was difficult, but necessary. Standing up for myself in that arena was the bravest leap of my life.”
Biles considers her experience at the Tokyo Olympics a turning point, as it sparked a broader conversation about mental health in sports. She expressed satisfaction that the focus has shifted from solely her athletic achievements to include discussions about mental well-being. “It completely transformed me. Before, people only talked about my medals; now they also talk about the mental aspect. That makes me happy; it shows that something has changed,” she remarked.
The gymnast’s journey underscores a vital message: achieving success is not meaningful without the ability to enjoy it peacefully. Biles’ candidness around her mental health struggles has not only resonated with athletes but also with many who may face similar challenges. As she continues her career, her commitment to mental wellness serves as an inspiration for both current and future generations of athletes.
