?My Anxiety Was Through the Roof?- British Swimmer Details Mental Health Issues at Tokyo Olympics 2020

The 3-meter springboard diving competition at Tokyo Olympics 2020 saw the Chinese contingent dominate the headlines. Xie Siyito and Wang Zongyuang claimed the gold and silver medal respectively in a thrilling contest. Likewise, the bronze medal went to Britain’s Jack Laugher.

Meanwhile, many athletes have opened up about mental health issues in this year’s Olympics. Simone Biles withdrew from the team artistic gymnastics event at the start of the games because of this problem. As more athletes come forward, Jack Laugher opened up about his experiences related to anxiety as well.

Laugher reflected on his preparations for the Olympics as he faced mental health issues before the grand sporting event.

Laugher opens up about his issues

The bronze medallist recollected tough days heading to Japan after being ‘scared to dive’ because of anxiety issues. Moreover, he stated how the last two years of his life have not gone accordingly and found it tough to deal with the problem.

“I’ve been through a lot over the last couple of years and my diving career has really taken a turn for the worst and so has my mental health but this felt like a triumph and a combination of hard work and love and support from a lot of people.”

“I really tried to stay concentrated but as soon as I saw that I was on the podium I just broke down. I was so relieved with everything that I’d overcome and that I’d put everything behind me and I felt like I was finally back to myself again,” said Laugher.

The diver spoke about the troubles he faced leading to the event. Many athletes are now opening up about their issues. The expectations and pressures of nations on these athletes seem to take a toll on them. But, Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles have broken the social stigma, and come out with their issues.

A welcome change for all the taboos to be kicked out of the park.

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Jack Laugher wins bronze at Tokyo Olympics 2020

The 3-meter springboard was a tight battle as Laugher won his third Olympic medal. In the early days of his career, he won a gold and silver medal in Rio 2016. The Brit could not contain his happiness after winning the bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020.

“There is only so much a man can take but now I’ve got a medal round my neck it feels like it is redemption,” said Laugher.

The victory sparks as an inspiration for people who deal with mental health issues daily. Jack Laugher wins a lot of hearts for his gutsy performances and ignites a sense of fire for the younger generation to come out on these issues.

Every single athlete takes a lot of grit and determination to prepare themselves for the Olympic games. Apart from improving their physical fitness, mental health should be monitored as well. To sum up, opening up about mental health issues is a boon rather than a bane.

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