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At just 19 years old, Raven Saunders, also known as "The Hulk," achieved an impressive fifth-place finish in the shot put event at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. This remarkable accomplishment catapulted them into the spotlight, marking them as one of the youngest female shot putters to compete at the Olympics. Despite the exhilaration of their Olympic success, Raven's return home was marred by a deep depression, fueled by unresolved childhood traumas. This ordeal set Raven on a life-changing journey of triumph over tragedy.
The Dark Side of Success
Despite the exhilaration of their Olympic success, Raven “The Hulk” Saunders’ return home was marred by a deep depression, fueled by unresolved childhood traumas. The immense pressure and relentless demands of the sport left them emotionally and mentally drained. It was during this time that Raven began to understand the extent of their mental health struggles, a journey that led them to seek professional help at the University of Mississippi.
Finding Support and Seeking Help
Raven's turning point came when they reached out to a therapist at Ole Miss, someone they felt truly understood her struggles. This therapist became a lifeline, especially during a critical moment when Raven contemplated ending their life. Their decision to text their therapist while at a crossroads, both literally and figuratively, ultimately saved Raven's life.
Breaking the Stigma in the African-American Community
Raven highlighted the stigma surrounding mental health in the African-American community, where seeking help is often seen as a sign of weakness. They shared their journey of breaking through these cultural barriers and finding the courage to seek therapy. Raven's story underscores the importance of addressing mental health issues openly and honestly.
Listen to this episode to learn about...
- [4:24] Finding Support and Seeking Help
- [6:53] Breaking the Stigma in the African-American Community
- [14:49] Inspiring Others Through Advocacy
Listen to the bonus episode to learn how Raven discovered their physical strength
Resources:
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis: 1-800-273-8255
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Gatorade Presents: UNSTOPPABLE Feat. Trayvon Bromell & Raven Saunders
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PBS Voices: An Olympic Athlete Takes on Depression (Feat. Raven Saunders)
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