Lydia Jacoby opens up about the challenges of fame and depression after winning Olympic gold.
At just 17 years old, Lydia Jacoby became a household name after winning the gold medal in the 100-meter breaststroke at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her victory, which included setting the fastest time ever achieved by a female American swimmer (1:04.95), was a moment of immense pride and accomplishment. However, the joy of winning gold came with unforeseen challenges.
Upon returning home to Alaska, Jacoby quickly realized that her life had dramatically changed. The once-unknown athlete was now thrust into the spotlight, facing the pressures and expectations that come with global fame. In an honest conversation on NBC’s “My New Favorite Olympian” podcast, Jacoby shared her struggles with depression in the wake of her Olympic success.
Jacoby spoke about how the weight of newfound expectations, coupled with the isolation she felt after returning to her small hometown, took a toll on her mental health. While she had dreamed of achieving Olympic gold, she had not anticipated the emotional challenges that would follow. The shift from being a teenager focused on her sport to dealing with the complexities of fame, public attention, and personal expectations was overwhelming.
She described feeling a sense of loss as the focus on her achievements began to overshadow her personal well-being. Despite her athletic success, Jacoby’s mental health began to deteriorate, leading her to experience periods of depression. The immense pressure to perform and the constant scrutiny she faced made it difficult for Jacoby to navigate the transition from athlete to celebrity.
Jacoby’s story highlights the often-overlooked emotional toll that comes with the fame of Olympic athletes. While the pursuit of gold may seem like the ultimate goal, it can bring with it unforeseen struggles that impact mental health. Jacoby’s openness about her experience serves as an important reminder of the need for mental health support for athletes, especially those thrust into the spotlight at a young age.
