“Could Hear Those Whispers”: Bodybuilding Legend Phil Heath Opens Up About His Mental Health Battles

The man who equaled Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s record of seven Mr. Olympia titles rarely lost his cool. Despite his intense and volatile rivalry with Kai Greene, Phil Heath always let his physique do the talking on the Olympia stage. However, the modern-day bodybuilding legend has now opened up about his constant struggle with mental health while he bagged one title after another.

Phil Heath might have seemed unstoppable during his championship run, but the Mr. Olympia had to constantly suppress his demons. During his appearance at the True Jordie podcast, The Gift opened up about how he struggled with pain. Heath also explained why he chose to suppress it and soldier on, although he knew it would only make his inner battle more difficult.

Phil Heath finally learned to love himself

“Everyone goes through pain. But when you realize what your calling is, there’s no time for it,” said the bodybuilding icon. Phil Heath realized he “had the opportunity to be the best in the world,” and probably one of the best in bodybuilding history. So, he focused on competing and put his emotions aside. The Gift acknowledged that this wasn’t the best decision for his mental health.

“The problem is that they do end up growing… I could hear those whispers from that damn freaking demon,” confessed Phil Heath. He even said that at times those feelings overwhelmed him and manifested as rage. However, his self-control helped the seven-time Mr. Olympia regain his composure. Although Heath knew it was ok to tell his wife or his emotions, he felt afraid.

The Gift was afraid that had he lost focus, it would’ve caused a “downward spiral” that would’ve cost him the opportunity to make history. So, the champion soldiered on until he lost his Olympia crown. Thankfully, the 44-year-old found time to address his mental health issues. After conquering the bodybuilding stage, he gave himself time and finally learned self-love. In fact, he’s made peace with his rival too.

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The Gift and The Predator are now amicable

One of the reasons why Phil Heath felt so compelled to prove himself time and again on the Olympia stage was Kai Greene. The three-time Arnold Classic winner pushed The Gift to his limit on and off stage. For years, Greene nipped at Heath’s heels. In fact, the rare occasions where the 44-year-old lost his cool was while confronting Kai Greene.

However, now that Phil Heath is in a better place mentally, he is also on better terms with Kai Greene. In the last few years, the two have bumped into each other more than once. They crossed paths at the Arnold Classic 2024, most recently, and were respectful to one another.

Read More | “He’ll Never Stand a Chance”: Phil Heath Discusses the Only Defeat Against Rival Kai Greene That Changed Him Forever

So, although Phill Heath might not have made the best decision for his mental health, he pursued bodybuilding glory with tunnel vision and succeeded. Today, the former champion has won the mental battle as well.