Being at the top is not always easy. It is an honor, of course, but only those, who are at the top can understand the pressure that comes with it. What it is like to be up there. While becoming the best was tough for swimmer Michael Phelps, staying there proved to be harder for the champion. However, no matter what he went through during his career, his family and (then partner) wife, Nicole Phelps, was always there to lend support.

Although Phelps is the physical definition of greatness, it was never easy to be that way for him. It’s not just about the physical training an athlete does, it is also about being at peace, mentally. Living with anxiety and depression, Phelps has had both good and bad days, but Nicole has been the only constant.

Michael Phelps as the ‘chef’ of the family

During a recent interview, Phelps opened up about being a father. “Not having a father growing up… all of these emotions that are coming up are very intense,” said Phelps. “I want to be a better dad than my father was to me,” he added.

As a kid, he always wanted to have dinner with his family but could not. So now, he has made it a habit that everyone eats together every day at the same time.

Michael is most often the chef of the family as his kids talk to him about their day. The banter they exchange is fun a part of the conversation for him and an integral part of being a dad. Phelps never misses a chance to spend time with his kids. If he’s not going to drop his kids at school, he will be seen picking them up. If not that, then they’re all out in the backyard, playing and having fun.

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Phelps also mentioned that his kids, especially the oldest, Boomer, are aware of their father’s mental health issues. 

Michael also took this opportunity to tell how Nicole helps him through his issues. Phelps’ parents divorced when he was 9 and was raised by his mother.
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Nicole helps him work through his childhood trauma and abandonment issues. She uses a book or quote that she thinks will resonate with Phelps.

Phelps as a mental health advocate

Phelps has been very active in spreading awareness about mental health. In an effort to do the same, the champion swimmer has partnered up with Talkspace. It is a digital platform that helps people seek professional help through video sessions.

In addition, Phelps also applauded Olympic gymnast Simone Biles for withdrawing from the Olympics owing to mental health issues. Not being in the right frame of mind could have caused serious injury to the gymnast.

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Phelps looks happy now, free from all the stress. The legendary and inspirational personality continues to work for the mental well-being of many athletes and other people from around the globe.