I’m No Expert: Simone Biles Asks Fans NOT to See Her as an Advocate for Mental Health

When Simone Biles told her coach, she cannot continue performing in the Tokyo Olympics, the news came as a shock for many. Biles stated mental health as the prime reason for this. She had a case of the “twisties” which could have proved fatal for her.

This step leads the way for a major change in the world of sports. Athletes realized that there were others who were going through the same kind of struggles, and breaking under pressure. Biles led the way, making it clear that it was okay to prioritize oneself and mental health over performance.

People started to look up to her and saw her as a mentor who would show them the way. However, Biles has revealed that she does not want to be a mental health advocate, as she is still figuring out the way.

I am not expertise: Simone Biles

In a recent interview, Biles?revealed that she does not intend on becoming a mental health advocate. She believes she is going through something and she is still figuring it out. It wouldn’t be quite right for her to advise others about it.

“..everybody wanted me to be an advocate and the face for mental health. And I was like, no, I?m not expertise. Like I am still going through my own unique journey and that?s something I need to figure out before I can try to help people and talk about,” said Biles.

Biles added that she never got to say she didn’t want to do it or become an advocate for mental health. She is going through her own journey, with her own personal share of struggles.

When it comes to mental health, Biles feels lost. She is still figuring out her way.

“So it was very different rather than being an advocate for gymnastics. Like I am an expert in that. It’s different. Mental health. I am lost, I have no idea. I am just a work in progress,” added Biles.

Biles is more than happy to help and guide anyone but at the same time, she realizes it will not be fair for her to act as an advocate of mental health.

Biles revealed she was crying after the love she received

When she first made it public that she was not going to perform in the Olympics, Simone Biles was ready to face a lot of backlashes.

However, the public surprised her when they showed immense love and support for the athlete. They emphasized with her and understood her. This really moved Biles’ heart and she was touched.

“I was crying, I was like whoa, they respect me, not only an as an athlete but as a human. ?So to be viewed as a human I?m like, this is kind of nice for once. And it definitely makes me happy,” said Biles.

Moreover, people took strength from her. This inspired people as it itself was a big deal because earlier athletes ignored their mental health and kept on performing, which ultimately became harmful.

Simone Biles has not only taken a stand for herself, but for all those athletes who go through rigorous training, ignoring themselves. It was a win for the sports!

READ MORE: Do You Need To Be ?Skinny? for Gymnastics? Simone Biles Has Her Say