Gold Medal for the Ages
Normalizing mental illness, reducing stigma, and the importance of self-care take a giant step forward during the Olympics.
COMMENTARY
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The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games have been fraught with a tale of 2 emotions: pure elation and disappointment. However, in my mind, the theme of mental health is the goal medalist that truly deserves recognition among all athletes competing in these games.
I am thankful for athletes like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and others who prioritize their mental health above their craft. At the end of the day, self-care is the true victor in any competition.
Here is some food for thought in the form a poem:
Mental health shines gold
on the Olympian stage
during all seasons
Dr Clark is clinical assistant professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine-Greenville and medical director & division chief for Adult Inpatient and Consult-Liaison Services for the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at Prisma Health-Upstate. He serves as the Diversity & Inclusion Section Editor and Advisory Board member for Psychiatric TimesTM.
