Elite athletes train their bodies for years, and many have also looked after their minds. When well-known sportspeople speak openly about therapy and counselling, it shows that asking for help is a sign of strength and part of staying at your best. Indian Athletes: KL Rahul (cricket), 2025: Spoke publicly about the importance of mental health among cricketers, and said it took a lot for him to decide to seek therapy. Sania Mirza (tennis): Has spoken about bouts of depression during her career, and about seeking therapy and professional support. She also pointed out how constant travel and time away from family can affect an athlete's mental health. Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting): After a very hard Rio 2016 Olympics, where she did not record a successful lift, she said she felt completely broken. She credited talking to a psychologist with helping her recover and get back on track. Manu Bhaker and Angad Vir Singh Bajwa (shooting): Before the Tokyo Olympics, the Sports Ministry approved their request to work with sports psychologist Sanjana Kiran, a sign that mental preparation is now treated as part of serious training in India. Global Athletes: Naomi Osaka (tennis): Has spoken openly about anxiety and depression, took breaks from competition, and said she began seeing a therapist in 2022. Michael Phelps (swimming): Spoke about a very low period in 2014, after which he entered a treatment programme and continued therapy afterwards. He now speaks widely about mental health. Simone Biles (gymnastics): Stepped back at the Tokyo Olympics because of a mental block known as 'the twisties, ' and has spoken openly about using therapy. What These Stories Show: Struggling mentally does not take away from talent or hard work. Pressure, injury, loss, and life after big events can affect any athlete. Support from a psychologist or therapist is now part of how many top athletes prepare and recover. Support for Athletes in Nashik: You do not need to be an Olympian to benefit from this kind of support. Swasthya Mental Health Clinic offers counselling in Nashik for young and amateur athletes and their families, including CBT therapy, performance anxiety support, stress management, and care for low mood. 📞 Call us to book a session 📍 Visit us in Nashik