In a heartfelt interview with 9News, former Olympic skier and Athlete EDGE® Ambassador, Alice Merryweather shared her personal battle with an eating disorder, bringing much-needed attention to the mental health challenges faced by athletes. After the high of competing in the 2018 Olympics, Alice experienced a profound sense of emptiness that led to mental health struggles and disordered eating. She emphasized how critical it was to seek professional help from a team of experts who specialize in working with athletes and eating disorders. Alice’s story is a powerful reminder that mental health is as crucial as physical health for athletes and that there is an ongoing need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues in sports.

Alice detailed how the pressures and expectations placed on athletes can lead to serious mental health struggles. Her journey toward recovery involved acknowledging her problem, seeking treatment from the specialized team at Athlete EDGE® at EDCare, and grounding herself within a supportive community. Alice’s openness about her experience aims to inspire other athletes to prioritize their mental well-being and to seek help without shame.

Dr. Mark Allen, Medical Director of Psychiatry at EDCare, joined Alice and emphasized the importance of athletes seeking treatment for eating disorders and mental health issues, noting that it’s crucial to normalize these discussions. He pointed out the pressures athletes face and the necessity of addressing mental health with the same seriousness as physical injuries.

Alice and Dr. Allen both highlight the broader issue of mental health in sports, advocating for more resources and support systems for athletes at all levels. Alice’s courage in sharing her story underscores the importance of mental health awareness and the need for ongoing dialogue about these issues.

For more on Alice’s journey and insights into mental health challenges in athletics, read the full article on 9News.

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EDCare offers specialized eating disorder treatment for athletes through the Athlete EDGE® program in Denver, CO. Our dedicated team of professionals possesses extensive knowledge and a deep passion for sports and the unique challenges athletes face. We strive to help athletes achieve lifelong recovery from their eating disorders and work to raise awareness and break the stigma around athletes seeking mental health support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, our compassionate specialists are here to help. Contact EDCare at (866) 771-0861 for a free, confidential assessment or fill out an inquiry form today.