Mental Health Lessons From the Olympics
The closing ceremonies may be over but that doesn’t mean there aren’t important lessons we can learn from the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The Olympics have always been a showcase of athletic prowess, determination, and the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity. Beyond the medals and records, there are deep lessons we can draw from these athletes' experiences that resonate with our own lives, particularly in the realm of mental health.
The 2024 Paris Olympics have provided several powerful examples that we can learn from and apply in our journey toward better mental health.
Never Give Up
One of the most inspiring stories from the Olympics is that of Cole Hocker, whose journey to gold wasn't easy. Despite facing immense pressure and being pitted against some of the best athletes in the world, Hocker never gave up.
In the final moments of the 1500M watch how he was able to NEVER GIVE UP and sail to gold.
In mental health, perseverance is crucial. There will be moments when the path to recovery or stability feels overwhelming and when setbacks make it tempting to give up.
Hocker’s triumph reminds us that even in those dark moments, persistence can lead to breakthrough moments. Like Hocker, we must keep moving forward, one step at a time, trusting that our efforts will eventually lead to success.
Lifting Others Elevates Everyone
The Women’s Floor event saw a heartwarming moment when the Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles displayed exceptional class and sportsmanship. Even as they competed for individual glory, they celebrated each other's successes. They demonstrated that honoring others’ achievements doesn’t take away from your importance—in fact, it adds to it.
This lesson is vital in the context of mental health. Often, we fall into the trap of comparison, thinking that someone else's success diminishes our own. However, lifting others and celebrating their victories can create a supportive community that benefits everyone. When we acknowledge the achievements of others, we reinforce our own value and contribute to a positive, uplifting environment.
Embrace Authenticity
In an unexpected twist, an athlete competing in the Pommel Horse event became a viral sensation, not because of his medal, but because of his authenticity. Stephen Nedoroscik affectionately known as "Pommel Horse Guy" captured the hearts of millions simply by being himself, showing that the world loves and respects those who embrace who they truly are.
In mental health, authenticity is key to healing and growth. When we try to fit into molds that don't suit us or pretend to be something we're not, it takes a toll on our well-being. Embracing who we are, with all our flaws and unique qualities, can lead to a more fulfilling and mentally healthy life. The story of the Pommel Horse Guy reminds us that being true to ourselves can be our greatest asset.
The Power of Precision
Noah Lyles’ victory in the sprint event came down to a razor-thin margin of .005 seconds. This minuscule difference highlights the power of precision and attention to detail. Every aspect of his training, from diet to mental preparation, contributed to this narrow win.
In mental health, precision can also make a significant difference. Small, consistent actions—like maintaining a routine, practicing mindfulness, or setting boundaries—can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. Just as Lyles’ focus on the finer details led to his victory, paying attention to the small aspects of our mental health can lead to significant improvements in our lives. This lesson teaches us that it’s often the little things that add up to big changes.
The Strength of Unity
The USA Women’s Basketball team at the Olympics secured their 8th consecutive gold and the 61st consecutive Olympic win. They demonstrated that even superstars need a strong team behind them. Despite having some of the best players in the world, their success was built on teamwork, communication, and mutual support.
Mental health is not a solo journey. It’s essential to have a support system, whether it’s friends, family, or a professional counselor. Like the USA Women’s Basketball team, we need people who can lift us when we’re down, celebrate our successes, and provide the support we need to keep going. This lesson reminds us that asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a necessary part of maintaining our mental well-being.
Take the Olympic Spirit Home with You
The Olympics are more than just a spectacle of athletic achievement—they offer profound lessons that apply to all aspects of life, including mental health. From Cole Hocker’s perseverance to the Brazilian gymnasts’ celebration of others, from embracing authenticity to recognizing the power of precision, and the importance of teamwork, these stories provide valuable insights that can help us navigate our own mental health journeys.
So, as you reflect on these Olympic stories, ask yourself:
Which lesson resonates most with you? And how can you apply it to foster better mental health in your own life?
Take a page from the athletes’ playbook and choose one lesson to focus on this week. Whether it’s practicing persistence, embracing your true self, or reaching out for support, remember that small, consistent actions can lead to monumental change.