Coping With The Pressures Of Competing | Abou Konate: The Locker Room – Episode 2
To celebrate Mental Health Awareness, in every week of October we are sharing an episode of The Locker Room — a series of candid interviews with our ambassadors and athletes that give their experiences with mental health a platform. Because we are #StrongerTogether.
In this second episode, pro-bodybuilder Abou Konate openly discusses how he struggled to live with the constant pressure of looking a certain way and training relentlessly even in off-season. He reflects on a time where he felt singled out during a competition for being the only black competitor and addresses the male tendency to keep emotions bottled up for the sake of appearing “tough”.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this video, the following organisations may be able to provide help and advice:
Mental Health UK: https://mentalhealth-uk.org/information-and-support/
CALM: https://www.thecalmzone.net/
Samaritans: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
Shout (a 24/7 crisis text line): text SHOUT to 85258
For every Stronger Together shaker sold throughout October, we’ll be donating £2.50 to Mental Health UK (registered charity number: 1170815).
Check these out next:
Battling An Eating Disorder & Living With PTSD | Emelye Dwyer: The Locker Room – Episode 1
In this incredibly powerful interview, our athlete shares her struggles with mental health — and how she’s now using them to help others.
Overcoming Anxiety With Exercise — Ryan’s Story | 8 Million Strong
Through running, Ryan has learnt the difference between a mental barrier and a phyiscal barrier.
6 Ways To Keep Your Mental Health On Track As A Fresher In Lockdown
In lockdown in your new student flat? We've got some tips that might help you cope...
Lauren is an English Literature graduate originally from the South. She’s always loved swimming, has discovered the power of weight training over the past few years, and has lots of room for improvement in her weekly hot yoga class.
On the weekends she’s usually cooking or eating some kind of brunch, and she enjoys trying out new recipes with her housemates – especially since shaking off student habits, like mainly surviving off pasta. Above all, she’s a firm believer in keeping a balance between the gym and gin.
Find out more about Lauren’s experience here.
