Michael Phelps, renowned for his record-breaking Olympic career, has found a new mission outside the pool. The 40-year-old athlete, who retired after the 2016 Rio Olympics with 28 medals, is now a leading advocate for mental health and well-being.

Beyond the Pool

Phelps’ journey into mental health advocacy began with his own struggles. He openly shares his experiences with depression, emphasizing the importance of seeking help. This personal journey has become a cornerstone of his post-swimming life.

His Michael Phelps Foundation, established in 2008, initially focused on promoting healthy living and water safety for young people. However, in 2020, the foundation expanded its mission to include mental wellness and emotional resilience for children, reflecting Phelps’ evolving priorities.

Partnering for Change

In 2023, Phelps partnered with Talkspace, an online therapy company, to promote sustainable mental wellness habits through the “Start from the Top” campaign. He has also delivered keynote speeches worldwide, sharing his story to inspire others to prioritize mental health.

Phelps recalls a pivotal moment when he realized the importance of mental health. “I honestly think it’s really when I got to that point of not wanting to be alive,” he explained. This realization led him to seek help and ultimately share his experiences to help others.

Impacting Lives

Phelps’ advocacy is making a difference. He recounts an encounter with a young man who, despite having his dream job, felt lost. Phelps’ openness about his struggles gave the young man the confidence to share his own feelings, highlighting the impact of Phelps’ work.

For Phelps, the motivation now is not gold medals but the chance to save lives. By speaking candidly about mental health, he is helping to shift the narrative, showing that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.