"Hardest part is logging on to therapy sessions" - Simone Biles weighs in on her mental health journey after becoming a role model for fellow athletes

Simone Biles, the most decorated artistic gymnast of all time, recently opened up about prioritizing her mental health after inspiring her counterparts like Jade Carey. She recommitted to her therapy to ensure she was in optimal condition while preparing for the Paris Olympics in July.

During her second Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021, Biles decided to withdraw from multiple events due to 'twisties'—a condition where gymnasts lose their sense of orientation in midair, ultimately making it tricky for the athletes to safely execute their routines. Despite the challenges, Biles concluded the Tokyo Olympics with two medals: a bronze in the balance beam and a silver in the team all around.

In the wake of twisties and mental health challenges, the 27-year-old took over a two-year hiatus from the sport before making her comeback last year. The Ohio native made her Olympic return this year in Paris and won four medals for the United States. The American star secured three golds in team all-around, vault, and individual all-around and earned a silver in the floor exercise.

However, Simone Biles revealed during a conversation with Olympics.com last month that she had to commit to the therapy sessions to prepare for the Games in Paris. She said:

"In the beginning, I think the hardest part is logging on to my therapy sessions and convincing myself to go. 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."

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When Simone Biles expressed her heartfelt gratitude to fans for their support throughout her mental health journey

Simone Biles at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 (Image via Getty)

Last year, after winning her sixth all-around world championship title in Belgium, Simone Biles expressed her deep appreciation and gratitude to her fans and family for being by her side during the mental health journey.

"I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to fans, friends, family & partnerships who have been unwavering pillars of support throughout my mental health journey," she wrote in her Instagram story. "Your encouragement, love and belief in me have been instrumental in my success and recovery." (as quoted by People)

She added:

"Knowing that you were there, cheering me on, gave me the strength to push through the toughest moments. I feel truly blessed to have such an incredible support system, and I can't thank you enough for being with me every step of the way. Your presence in my life is invaluable, and I am deeply appreciative of your unwavering support."

Simone Biles also noted that during her mental health struggles, she doubted if she would ever be able to perform gymnastics again. However, she is now the most decorated gymnast of all time, with 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship titles.