Ep 7. The Michael Phelps and the Weight of Gold

In the seventh episode of Against the Odds season 1, viewers are taken on a deep dive into the story behind Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympic athlete of all time, and his battle with mental health. Titled "The Michael Phelps and the Weight of Gold", this episode explores the immense pressure and expectations that came with Phelps' success, and how he coped with the constant spotlight.

The episode begins with a look at Phelps' early life and the incredible success he achieved at a young age. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Phelps started swimming at the age of seven and quickly made a name for himself. By the time he was a teenager, he was already breaking records and winning championships.

As Phelps' career continued to skyrocket, however, the pressure began to mount. He was chasing after a seemingly impossible goal – breaking Mark Spitz's record of seven gold medals in a single Olympic Games – and the weight of expectations rested heavily on his shoulders. In interviews and press conferences, Phelps always appeared confident and composed, but underneath the surface he was struggling.

Viewers are given a glimpse into Phelps' mental health struggles throughout his career, including his battles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. The episode also explores how Phelps coped with his emotions, including turning to alcohol and drugs as a way to numb the pain.

Despite the immense challenges he faced, Phelps continued to compete and dominate in the pool. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he broke Spitz's record and won an unprecedented eight gold medals in a single Games. The episode features interviews with Phelps and his family, as well as fellow swimmers and coaches, who reflect on this historic achievement and the toll it took on Phelps.

The episode also delves into the ways in which the Olympics as an institution can perpetuate and exacerbate mental health issues. Viewers are shown how the overwhelming expectations placed on athletes, coupled with the short-lived nature of Olympic glory, can create a toxic environment that takes a toll on mental health. The episode talks about how the pressure doesn't end with the Olympics, as Phelps struggled to find purpose and meaning in his life after retiring from swimming.

Ultimately, "The Michael Phelps and the Weight of Gold" is a moving and insightful exploration of one of the greatest athletes of all time and his journey through mental health struggles. By shining a light on the challenges and pressures that Olympic athletes face, the episode raises important questions about the role that institutions like the Olympics play in mental health. It's a must-see for fans of sports documentaries and anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the human side of Olympic competition.