Treating Mental Illness Like a Physical Injury with Olympian Alexi Pappas

After becoming an Olympian in 2016, runner Alexi Pappas was afraid to slow down. Her mother had died by suicide when Alexi was just four years old, and she feared that her own depression would become a death sentence, too. But with the support of friends and family, she found the strength to get help and heal. Alexi’s story is for anyone who wants to feel a little braver, to face the world new each day, and understand that it doesn’t take Olympic strength to change your life. In this conversation you’ll learn: – Why we should treat mental illness like a physical injury – How to tell the difference between pain as warning vs. pain as transformation – The best way to support someone who is suffering – How to embrace the unknown with excitement rather than worry You can learn more about Alexi Pappas and buy her book at https://www.alexipappas.com/. And watch Blake on Alexi’s podcast, Mentor Buffet, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jtbyxv34TMw. Enough Foundation's mission is to spread reminders in every form — bracelets, messages, actions, community — until feeling ENOUGH becomes the cultural default. To learn more, visit weareenough.co.  Produced, Directed, and Cinematography by Wubetu Shimelash / IG: Wubetu Shimelash Disclaimer: No purchase necessary. While supplies last. Visit http://www.weareenough.co/rules for full terms. More information on Blake’s other projects here:  Morning Water  Morning Water is a daily hydration formula that restores energy, balance, and performance with essential electrolytes, minerals, and nutrients in one simple routine.  To learn more, visit morningwater.co and use code NOMAGICPILL for 25% off your first order. SONIA  Sonia is a conversational AI companion designed for emotional support. Through voice and text, it offers guided wellbeing sessions, including meditations, journaling, personalized recommendations, and practical exercises. To learn more, visit www.soniahealth.com and download it on the App Store. MOOVLAB At MOOVLAB, we bring health and wellness to your workday.  MOOVLAB - the answer to sitting is moving.  To learn more, visit www.moovlab.com Follow Blake on Instagram and stay up to date with Lemonada on Facebook and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at lemonadapremium.com. Subscribe to Spotify Premium to watch ad-free video. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical questions or concerns you may have. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices