Trigger Warning -> Mental Health Struggles

Finally sharing my story which has never seen the light of day before. I struggled for a long time with bullying and the mental health tolls which comes from that all. It was hard - and sharing this was not easy at all, an emotional, raw look in to the struggles I faced - largely in silence.

Keywords

mental health, faith, sport, athlete, depression, recovery, Olympic journey, self-worth, resilience, encouragement

Summary

In this episode of the Prodigal Athlete Podcast, host Elisabeth Vathje shares her personal journey with mental health as an Olympic athlete. She discusses the challenges she faced, including depression, external pressures, and the impact of her faith on her recovery. Elisabeth emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's worth and the damaging effects of negative perceptions. Through her story, she encourages listeners to find freedom in faith and to reject the lies that can undermine their self-esteem.

Takeaways

• Elisabeth shares her struggles with mental health during her athletic career.
• She emphasizes the importance of faith in overcoming challenges.
• The impact of external pressures on mental health is significant.
• Elisabeth highlights the damaging effects of negative perceptions.
• She encourages athletes to recognize their worth and value.
• The journey to recovery can be long and complex.
• Elisabeth found freedom in her faith and relationship with Jesus.
• It's important to have support and not feel isolated in struggles.
• Elisabeth's story serves as a reminder that others may be silently suffering.
• She invites listeners to reach out for support and encouragement.

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Journey

02:27The Struggles of an Athlete

12:21The Impact of External Factors

20:25Finding Freedom in Faith

Keywords

faith, sport, Christianity, identity, transformation, prayer, Jesus, encouragement, athletes, love

Summary:

In this episode of the Prodigal Athlete Podcast, host Elisabeth Vathje shares her personal journey of faith, exploring the intersection of faith and sport. She discusses her transformation, the importance of sharing faith, and the challenges athletes face regarding identity. Elisabeth emphasizes the need for boldness in faith, the Great Commission, and the call to love selflessly. The episode concludes with encouragement for both believers and non-believers to seek a deeper relationship with God and to live out their faith authentically.

Takeaways

• Elisabeth shares her journey of faith and transformation.
• Faith is not about rules but about a relationship with God.
• The importance of sharing one's faith with others.
• God provides peace and joy even in difficult times.
• Athletes often face identity crises that can be resolved through faith.
• Being labeled a 'Jesus freak' can be a badge of honor.
• Christians are called to love selflessly and boldly.
• The Great Commission is a call to make disciples.
• Living out faith can be uncomfortable but is essential.
• Love is the greatest commandment and should guide our actions.

• Faith and Sport: A Journey of Transformation
• The Intersection of Faith and Identity in Athletes

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00:00Introduction to Faith Journey

01:54Returning to Faith and Conviction

05:45Embracing the 'Jesus Freak' Identity

10:02The Transformative Power of Faith

13:13Identity Beyond Titles

16:33The Sacrifice of Jesus

20:46The Great Commission and Boldness in Faith

26:19Living Out Faith in Daily Life

28:58Closing Thoughts and Prayer