"At one point I slept so much" - When Simone Biles opened up on her methods to escape from her thoughts during dark times

Simone Biles' career has been nothing short of legendary. From appearing at the Olympic Games as a 19-year-old to becoming the most decorated American gymnast, she has displayed her peerless talent and determination with her groundbreaking routines.

However, her journey to legacy has been marked by several challenges including grappling with twisties to overcoming the trauma of the Larry Nassar scandal. He was charged with sexually assaulting around 265 young women and girls under the disguise of a medical professional for the American women's gymnastics team.

Nassar was later sent to federal prison for 60 years, following the testimonies of several American women gymnasts, including Biles. The legendary gymnast confronted significant hurdles following Nassar's scandal as she dealt with the emotional aftermath.

In an interview with Tunbridge.com, Biles shared an insight into her struggle, describing sleeping excessively as a way to escape her overwhelming thoughts.

“At one point I slept so much because, for me, it was the closest thing to death without harming myself. It was an escape from all of my thoughts, from the world, from what I was dealing with. It was a really dark time."

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"I’m so grateful for that" - Simone Biles attributes mental health therapy to her success

Simone Biles, who won the gold medal, poses on the podium at the artistic gymnastics women's all-around final of the 2024 Olympic Games at the Bercy Arena in Paris, France. (Photo via Getty Images)

Simone Biles made her second appearance at the Olympic Games in 2020. However, the gymnast stepped away from competing in the final event after experiencing "twisties," an occurrence when the gymnasts lose their sync between the body and mind.

Since then, Biles has staunchly supported prioritizing mental health before competing for medals. In an interview following her successful third appearance at the Games in Paris, she stated that although it was hard to start the therapy, she is grateful for the support she received.

“Working five years for a dream and just having to give it up, it was not easy at all,” Biles said.

“In the beginning, I think the hardest part is logging on to my therapy sessions and convincing myself to go,” Biles said “But as soon as I see my therapist and we start talking, it’s like I’m yapping the whole time. I’m so grateful for that.”

Simone Biles secured four medals at the Paris Games, including three gold and one silver.