Alysa Liu lit up the ice at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, earning the gold medal in women’s figure skating. Her vibrant spirit stood in stark contrast to a darker time just a few years earlier, when she stepped away from the sport at age 16 due to burnout and loneliness after intense training since she was five.
“My mental health was really tough back then,” Liu, now 20, shared. She took a much-needed break, focusing on school and friendships instead. “Surrounding myself with the right people was key,” she added, noting that getting her driver’s license and going on her first vacation helped her reconnect with life outside skating.
There was a time when Liu avoided the ice altogether, but a thrilling ski trip to Lake Tahoe reignited her passion. “I had so much fun skiing, and I wanted to keep that joy,” she recalled. This led to her announcement in March 2024 that she would return to competition.
Liu’s mental health strategy now includes two main habits: prioritizing sleep and staying connected with loved ones. “Sleep is huge for me — I need at least eight hours to feel good,” she said. Complementing her training with gym workouts and balanced meals helps her stay strong. During competitions, she reminds herself to breathe and remain calm.
“When I mess up, it’s okay,” Liu explained when asked about handling pressure. “Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on your own journey.”
For young athletes feeling burned out, Liu has a simple message: “Take a break if you need it. Don’t fear failure; trying something new can lead to great outcomes.”
Family plays a vital role in her support system. Her father is her biggest fan, and she loves spending time with her four younger siblings. Reflecting on her journey, Liu wouldn’t change a thing about her past. “I’d let my younger self figure it out,” she said.
Recent studies show that 70% of athletes experience mental health issues at some point in their careers, highlighting the importance of Liu’s message about self-care and taking breaks. Her journey speaks to not just athletes but anyone feeling overwhelmed, reminding us that stepping back can often be the pathway to finding joy again.
For more insights on athlete mental health, the National Institute of Mental Health offers valuable resources here.
