Michael Phelps’ Mental Health Journey: “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” | Amanpour and Company

As China battles Omicron, more than 20 million people are in strict lockdown across the country. This couldn’t come at a worse time for Beijing, as the world’s elite athletes descend for the Winter Olympics. On top of this, the U.S. is leading a diplomatic boycott over China’s abuse of its Muslim minority, the Uyghurs. These issues contribute to the already immense pressure on the athletes — a type of stress Michael Phelps knows only too well. The American swimmer is the most decorated Olympian ever, with 28 medals – 23 of them gold. He speaks frankly with Christiane about the 2022 Winter Games and his struggles with mental health.

Originally aired on January 13, 2021.