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“Cried for a Week”: Swimming Goat Michael Phelps Explains His Life-Changing Time at a Rehabilitation Center

Published 12/03/2022, 12:45 PM EST

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The swimming legend, Michael Phelps, is one of the most influential personalities of all time. Phelps even has the most decorated career as an athlete. However, things were not always on the brighter side for Phelps. From growing up as a kid who had ADHD to becoming a successful Olympian, he got somewhere into the backwoods in between.

The Baltimore bullet was frequently seen talking about the struggles he faced during his prime. Phelps grabs every opportunity to spread awareness about mental health. Likewise, in a recent keynote discussion, he appeared as a panelist and shared his experiences.

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Michael Phelps shared his experiences of living in Rehab

In October 2022, in a keynote discussion organized by Great place to work, Michael Phelps was invited as a key panelist along with other dignitaries. The host asked Phelps about his mental breakdown after the 2012 Olympics. On this, Phelps said, “In 2012, after the games, I kind of went downhill spiral. In 2014, I didn’t want to be alive”. Talking about the depressing time, he said, “I sought help and checked myself into the treatment center for 45 days”.

 

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Phelps also shared his experience at the rehab center. As per the talk, he went through several training sessions, where he learned to express his emotions. At one point, he even cried during the training. “I basically cried for a week straight, talking through the things I never wanted to talk about”, said Phelps. 

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Read More: “I Hope I Don’t Wake Up”: Swimming Legend Michael Phelps Opens Up on His Worst Phase

According to the session, Phelps believes that the entire experience taught him to find his authentic self. He even praised the treatment center for helping him throughout his despondency. “It was good I can keep going”, lauded Phelps.

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Phelps became an inspiration

After his long-time battle with anxiety and depression, the high-spirited Phelps became a philanthropist. He donates a hefty amount every year for raising anxiety and mental health awareness. Furthermore, after his treatment at ‘The Meadows’, the Flying Fish last appeared in the 2016 Rio Olympics and broke all the records. 

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Phelps retired with 28 Olympic medals to his name. And, hence, became one of the most decorated Olympians. Clearly, Michael Phelps’ life is worth having a look into. His influential ways and winning drive will always be remembered in the pages of history. 

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Watch This Story: From Someone Biles to Michael Phelps, Us Olympians Who Paid Hefty Tax on Their Gold Medals

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Written by:

Purva Jain

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Purva Jain is a US Sports author for EssentiallySports. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Mody University of Science and Technology. Purva is an avid reader and author of 3 books that are published in national and international marketplaces.
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Edited by:

Vineet Nandwana