Australian swimming champion Leisel Jones has revealed she is battling with “high-functioning depression” and only days ago she “wanted to end it all”.
Jones is an Olympic gold medallist and seven-time world champion who burst onto the international scene as a gun 15-year-old breaststroker.
Only a day ago the 39-year-old took to Instagram to reveal the depths of her struggles, posting a photo of herself with tears streaming down her face.
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“Stay until tomorrow,” she said.
“It’s one of my favourite sayings. Yesterday was one of my worst days and I wanted to end it all.
“I think I have been battling high-functioning depression for a little while now and have just gone back to work with a psych.
“In the dark moments I promise myself to just stay until tomorrow and it’s amazing what the next day can bring.
“Today was spectacular. I had some free time after work and went on an hour long walk along the beach. No goals. No plans. Just enjoy the sunshine and the view.
“I was really missing my walking buddy (former swimmer) Meagen Nay but walking by myself was enough.
“It changed my whole perspective on things.
“So if life has felt like a kick in the c*** lately, promise me you’ll stay until tomorrow 🤞🏽.”
Jones’ candid words have been praised by Lifeline Australia, which said her revelation could help many others struggling with depression.
“Thank you for your vulnerability and courage in sharing this, Leisel. Your words will no doubt bring comfort to many who are quietly battling their own struggles. Lifeline is always here for you,” they said
And she also received a flood of support from her high-profile friends.
Former swimmer Giaan Rooney wrote: “This post will help so many others darling, but just as importantly, I hope it helps you see how truly loved you are, how the world is a better place for having you in it & how many are in your corner - so much love to you always.”
While Aussie Olympian Jana Pittman said: “Such an amazing and brave post. Thank you for sharing ... an inspiration ❤️.”
TV star and comedian Dave Hughes said: “The walk along the beach appreciating the sun with no stress, no goals, is heaven, and it’s there all the time, whether we choose to realise it or not, whatever we are or aren’t doing.
“Australia loves you, but that doesn’t matter. You loving life is all that matters. But not even that. Let’s just be still.”
Olympic cyclist and Australia’s Chef de Mission at the Paris Games, Anna Meares, said: “Hang in there gorgeous girl! It’s a battle but you’re not alone! You are loved! I love you x.”
And Peter Helliar, another TV comedian, said that sometimes noticing the little things could make you feel better.
“Even tiny things like the way opening curtains to let light in your room can feel, the way fresh air can rejuvenate, seeing a friend,” he said.
“We spend time waiting for big life changing moments but there are so many tiny life affirming moments around us everyday. I’m trying hard to recognise how those moments make me feel. Thanks for sharing and I hope you continue to find your moments.”
Jones was the first Australian swimmer to attend four Olympic games, launching her spectacular career at just 15 at the Sydney Olympics and then going to the 2004 Athens Olympics, where she was part of the gold-medal winning women’s 4x100m relay.
She also won gold for the 100m breaststroke and the 4x100 medley relay at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and had a glittering career that included many other swimming achievements.
Since retiring from the pool she has become an author and media commentator.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
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