OLYMPIC gymnast Simone Biles has been praised for speaking openly about the importance of looking after her mental health, amid a call for people facing “perfect storms” of pressure to be supported whether in daily life or top-level sport.
The gold medal-winning US athlete has withdrawn from the women’s all-around final, having pulled out after one rotation of the women’s team final yesterday citing mental health concerns.
Former Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan was criticised for a "nasty" comment about Biles's withdrawal as he wrote: "Are ‘mental health issues’ now the go-to excuse for any poor performance in elite sport? What a joke. Just admit you did badly, made mistakes, and will strive to do better next time. Kids need strong role models not this nonsense."
But among campaigners and experts at mental health charities, Biles's decision has been described as “brave” with her openness branded “admirable”.
Speaking at a press conference, Biles said: “I say, put mental health first because if you don’t, then you’re not going to enjoy your sport and you’re not going to succeed as much as you want to.
“So it’s OK sometimes to even sit out the big competitions to focus on yourself because it shows how strong of a competitor and person that you really are, rather than just battle through it.”
She was “extremely articulate and poised” and spoke “really maturely” about the issue, said Dr David Fletcher, senior lecturer in performance psychology and management at Loughborough University.
He commented: “I think a lot of people who’ve had mental health issues in society at large will push on and persevere or if they do take time off work they may not explain or be upfront about the exact reasons why that might be, so hopefully she’s going to serve as a role model on this front.”
He said withdrawal from such a major event for which there will have been huge preparation made is a decision which “is not made lightly”.
He added: “I think if she was withdrawing for a physical injury or a physical health issue then people would probably not bat too much of an eyelid but because it’s a psychological health issue it’s gained a lot more attention, because she has been so open and transparent about it.
“I think in years gone by if athletes have withdrawn for these types of reasons then possibly some other reason or excuse has been made but I think what’s particularly interesting and admirable on this occasion is that she has been very honest and open about that.”
Athletes competing on the world stage are “under the gaze of a global audience of billions” and, while they willingly compete at such a high level, it is “totally understandable” they might struggle under that weight, Dr Fletcher said.
Katie Legg, director of strategy and partnerships at Mental Health UK, said it is a sign of strength rather than weakness to be open about mental health struggles.
She said: “Athletes push themselves to the limit to perform at the pinnacle of their sport, and they understand the role good mental health and resilience plays in achieving their dreams.
“None of us watching at home can fully understand what Simone is going through, but there is no doubt that this was a brave decision to take with the world watching your every move and the weight of a nation on your shoulders.
“To be open that you are struggling and to ask for support is not a sign of weakness, but a strength. We can all learn from her example and prioritise our mental health as much as our physical health.”
Hayley Jarvis, head of physical activity at Mind, said: “We hope Simone’s decision encourages anyone struggling with their mental health to get the help and support they need. We applaud and respect Simone and hope that she is given the space and time she needs to look after her mental health.”
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