Michael Phelps Partners with Talkspace for ‘Celebrate Every Step’ Campaign
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Michael Phelps has partnered with Talkspace for the ‘Celebrate Every Step’ campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of therapy.
Phelps, the 28-time Olympic medalist, has worked with the online behavioral health company many times before, appearing in advertising campaigns and sharing his story of how pivotal therapy was to conquering mental health struggles in and out of the pool. This latest endeavor showcases similar stories from Talkspace members about how therapy has improved their lives. This comes against a backdrop where, per a Talkspace press release, more people are willing to talk openly about their mental health challenges, and athletes in particular are more apt to share their struggles on the mental side of their sports. In his retirement, Phelps has become a passionate advocate on mental heath issues.
“Therapy helped save my life,” Phelps said in a press release. “Prioritizing my mental health has given me the chance to become a better version of myself – from improving communication skills to changing negative emotions. I’m excited to help support Talkspace’s ‘Celebrate Every Step’ campaign, as it recognizes people who are courageously sharing their experiences with therapy, which further breaks the stigmas surrounding mental health care and encourages help-seeking behavior.”
Talkspace also has a partnership with USA Swimming.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Phelps has been busy in years past advocating for access to and acceptance of therapy for those struggling with issues like the depression and anxiety that once threatened Phelps’ swimming career.
“This Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to show examples of tools people have taken from therapy to make progress in their own lives. By spotlighting stories from our members, we hope to demonstrate the depth and dimension of what therapy can do,” Katelyn Watson, Talkspace’s Chief Marketing Officer, said. “And seeing our own members eager to talk about their experiences in therapy, to us, represents a true shift in societal perceptions.”