Saving a life more important than a gold medal: Phelps
Renowned Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps has opened up again about his ongoing battle with depression, hoping he can help others who struggle with the disease. "I'd like to make a difference, I'd like to be able to save a life if I can," Phelps said yesterday in an interview with CNN. "For me, that's more important than winning a gold medal," he said.
Michael Phelps opens up about his struggle with depression: "I'd like to be able to save a life if I can" https://t.co/NlSOlTZa6t pic.twitter.com/ggjh3jYUi1
— CNN International (@cnni) August 17, 2018
Michael Phelps won 23 gold medals and 28 medals overall in a glittering Olympic career that stretched from the 2000 Sydney Olympics through the 2016 Rio Games.
"I was able to do some incredible things in the pool and I struggled outside as well. There was a point in my life when I didn't want to be alive," Phelps said. Phelps has spoken before of falling into depression after each Olympics he competed. It hit a low point after the 2012 London Games when he stayed in one room for days.
The 33-year-old, now married and a father of two, said his battle with depression hasn't ended. "Two to three weeks ago I went through a scary depression spell," Phelps said. "This is something that's going to continue to happen in my life," he added.
Phelps said speaking to a therapist was useful, as was the help of his wife, Nicole. "My wife is my rock and my everything and helps me through everyday life. I definitely wouldn't be who I am without her," Phelps said. "I do like who I am and I'm comfortable with who I am. I couldn't say that a few years ago," he added.
