• Video
  • Shop
  • Culture
  • Family
  • Wellness
  • Food
  • Living
  • Style
  • Travel
  • News
  • Book Club
  • GMA3: WYNTK
  • Newsletter
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Terms of Use
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Contact Us
  • © 2025 ABC News
  • Culture
  • Mental Health

Olympic gold medalist pens letter about PTSD after therapy session

3:20
Aly Raisman opens up about winning the ESPY's Arthur Ashe Courage award
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
ByMegan Stone
February 19, 2020, 2:28 PM

Olympic gold medalist Aly Raisman, who suffers from PTSD, opened up about her "productive, but exhausting" therapy session on Tuesday.

Related Articles

MORE: Aly Raisman on how she defines 'being strong' since becoming an advocate for sexual abuse survivors

Raisman, 25, explained that her latest therapy appointment left her feeling "completely drained, as if I just finished an intense training session. My body aches."

Despite the grueling session, Raisman offered hope to her followers who understand her battles all too well.

"At first I felt alone like no one would understand but then I remembered so many of you who have kindly supported me and also have been brave enough to share your own stories with me. I hope you know you gave me comfort and hope," she explained.

"The road to recovery isn't easy," she went on. "Some days I feel like I am moving forward and then the next day it feels like 3 steps back. Sometimes when I feel like I am beginning to heal from one part of my trauma, another memory pops up."

Related Articles

MORE: Aly Raisman confirms she will not compete in 2020 Tokyo Olympics

The two-time Olympian said when that happens she feels "so sick that it is hard to have an appetite and its hard to sleep."

Raisman said she opened up about such a personal issue to help others "who felt the same way."

"I hope you know you're not alone & no matter how hard the PTSD gets we won't feel like this forever," she said.

She closed her message with a heartfelt thank you to her fans: "I hope you feel my support. I stand with you."

Related Articles

MORE: Olympic gold medal gymnast files new lawsuit against USA Gymnastics, USOC

Her message resonated with many individuals who thanked her for her honesty and encouragement.

Raisman previously revealed her PTSD resulted from being sexually abused by former Team USA gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar.

Related Topics

  • Mental Health

Up Next in Culture—

Jon Bernthal reported to join Tom Holland in upcoming 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day'

June 21, 2025

Prince William turns 43! Royal family shares sweet tributes and family photo with the puppies

June 21, 2025

Fat Joe accused of sex trafficking, fraud in new lawsuit

June 20, 2025

'Bridgerton' season 4 marks end of production

June 20, 2025

Shop GMA Favorites

ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Sponsored Content by Taboola

The latest lifestyle and entertainment news and inspiration for how to live your best life - all from Good Morning America.
  • Contests
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Children’s Online Privacy Policy
  • Advertise with us
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Press
  • Feedback
  • Shop FAQs
  • ABC News
  • ABC
  • All Videos
  • All Topics
  • Sitemap

© 2025 ABC News
  • Privacy Policy— 
  • Your US State Privacy Rights— 
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy— 
  • Interest-Based Ads— 
  • Terms of Use— 
  • Do Not Sell My Info— 
  • Contact Us— 

© 2025 ABC News