"They tore me down," When Michael Phelps reflected on his journey through treatment after battling suicidal thoughts

American Olympic legend Michael Phelps has been a name synonymous with swimming excellence and abundant athletic achievements. The Baltimore Bullet is regarded as the greatest athlete of all time for his record-breaking 28 Olympic medals, including 23 gold, three silver, and two bronze. Notably, he is one of the fewest athletes who have won multiple golds in a single Olympic edition, a feat that Phelps achieved four consecutive times. In addition to his Olympic achievements, the American swimming icon also set several world records that stood still for many years.

Despite his phenomenal success in the pool, Phelps struggled with mental health problems in 2014, a consequence of his grueling swimming schedule that ranged from intense practices to competitive events. This led him to seek professional help and undergo treatment. Reflecting on that period, Phelps once shared his emotions and the journey he undertook during those challenging days.

A journey of strength and resilience

It all started when Michael Phelps announced his retirement from swimming following his participation at the 2012 London Olympics, where he secured four gold and two silver. Following this, Phelps faced post-Olympic depression, which triggered suicidal thoughts and led to struggles with alcohol addiction. In 2014, a troubling incident surfaced where the then 29-year-old isolated himself in a room for four days. He was also found guilty of driving under the influence, resulting in a six-month suspension from USA Swimming.

In a 2017 interview with CNN Phelps revealed that when he sought professional help, the people at the treatment center tore him up and rebuilt him.