As Simone Biles and Michael Phelps’ Work Towards Mental Health, Another Rising Gymnast Breaks Silence on Self-Care in Sports


Simone Biles and Michael Phelps are among some of the athletes who have spoken publicly about their mental health breakdown. They are the staunch proponents of cognitive well-being in the field of sports, encouraging others to speak up and seek help. Now, along similar lines, another gold-medal-winning gymnast opened up about  destigmatizing mental health. 

Make good sleep a priority

The most sacred is my bedtime routine.

Simone Biles

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'I feel strongly about this'

Riley McCusker(22), who has plans to go to medical school, wrote in her College application, “I feel strongly about this [combating the stigma associated with mental health in sports]. I’ve witnessed time and time again athletes who are afraid of asking for help due to fear of retaliation, fear of not being believed, or just not knowing what resources could be available to them.”

Struggles of student athlete 

Recently, in conversation with ballet phenomenon Misty Copeland, the University of Florida junior McCusker spoke about the challenges of balancing school with elite athletics, destigmatizing mental health among athletes yet again. 

Riley McCusker's mental health helpline 

While discussing her favorite way to unwind, Riley said: "I have a dog, Sage, and she's a golden retriever." "She has helped me so much with my mental health and everyday stressors. To be able to come home to a dog who you know loves you-that's been one of the greatest things I've done."

Make good sleep a priority

The most sacred is my bedtime routine.

Simone Biles

Download Now

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