From Struggle to Strength w/Olivia Bray #15

In this episode of the Ain't Dead Yet Podcast, Olivia Bray, a 20-time All-American collegiate swimmer at the University of Texas, shares her candid and inspiring journey through mental health challenges. Olivia, along with the hosts, delves into personal experiences with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and self-harm. They discuss the importance of seeking help, the complexities of antidepressants, the crucial role of therapy, and the impact of social media on mental health. Olivia's story of resilience encompasses her battles with nutrition, outpatient therapy, and the intense pressures of competitive sports, including the Olympic trials. This episode aims to break the stigma around mental health, providing wisdom and inspiration to those on a similar path towards recovery.   00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast 01:18 Introducing Olivia Bray 03:13 Childhood and Early Swimming Journey 04:54 Commitment to Swimming 07:13 Recruitment and College Decision 16:30 Nutritional Challenges and ARFID 25:10 Therapy and Seeking Help 51:58 Panic Attacks and Swimming 01:00:38 Taking a Break from Butterfly 01:01:27 Facing the Fear of Swimming Again 01:03:28 Overcoming Panic Attacks 01:06:16 Struggles with Anxiety and Introversion 01:09:48 Dealing with Depression and Suicidal Thoughts 01:14:50 Intensive Outpatient Therapy Experience 01:19:12 The Role of Antidepressants 01:24:28 The Comfort of Darkness 01:38:23 The Decision to Continue Swimming 01:53:07 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans   Connect with Olivia  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/oliviaabray/   Connect with Trip Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/ Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/