As the countdown to the Milan Cortina Olympics begins, Canadian bobsledder Mike Evelyn O’Higgins is not only focused on his competitive edge but also on raising awareness about mental health challenges. The 32-year-old engineer from Ottawa, who serves as a “pusher” in the four-man bobsleigh event, is using his platform to shed light on his struggles with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and inspire fellow athletes facing similar issues.
A Journey of Focus and Determination
In the high-octane world of bobsleigh, where every second counts, Evelyn O’Higgins knows that maintaining focus is paramount. He has been candid about his experiences with ADHD, a condition that affects emotional regulation and impulse control, likening it to having “a race car for a brain” that’s difficult to slow down. “I hyperfixate on all sorts of things,” he shared in a recent interview. “But bobsled seems to be a real magnet for me.”
His commitment to the sport is evident as he dedicates countless hours to reviewing footage of past bobsleigh events. This meticulous attention to detail helps him refine his technique and push the limits of his performance. Notably, he holds the record for being Team Canada’s leading “pushman,” a role that is critical in maximising the speed of the sled during races.
Breaking the Silence on Mental Health
Evelyn O’Higgins’ revelations come at a time when more athletes are sharing their mental health challenges. Former Olympians like Clara Hughes and current soccer star Stephanie Labbé have also opened up about their struggles, highlighting the prevalence of mental health issues among elite competitors. A 2021 study from the University of Toronto revealed that 41 per cent of athletes on Canadian national teams training for the Tokyo Games exhibited symptoms of mental health disorders, starkly contrasting with the 10 per cent of Canadians who reported similar issues over a year.
Acknowledging this statistic, Evelyn O’Higgins hopes to destigmatise mental health discussions within the sports community. He has developed various coping strategies to handle his ADHD, including breaking tasks into manageable chunks and rewarding himself upon completion. “It seems like you’re treating yourself like a small child, but it’s effective,” he explained.
Support from Family and Peers
His journey is not one he walks alone. His wife, Erin Evelyn O’Higgins, an engineer and avid marathon runner, has been a steadfast supporter, witnessing the challenges he faces. With a cheering squad of over 20 family and friends set to support him at the Olympics, she believes this will be a celebration of his dedication and hard work. The couple first connected through their shared passion for waterskiing, and Erin admires Mike’s willingness to discuss his mental health openly. “I’m always really proud to see him speaking out,” she remarked.
In preparation for the Games, Evelyn O’Higgins is contemplating starting medication for his ADHD, a decision he has approached thoughtfully, choosing to wait until after the Olympics. He finds strength in discussing his experiences, believing that openness fosters understanding and compassion.
The Importance of Self-Compassion
For Evelyn O’Higgins, discussing his mental health is not an act of vulnerability but rather a means of understanding himself better. He has spoken publicly about ADHD in various interviews, encouraging others to embrace their struggles. “It’s not something to be ashamed of,” he asserted. “It’s important to practice self-love and compassion and appreciate what you do have and work on what you can in a healthy way.”
Why it Matters
Mike Evelyn O’Higgins’ commitment to mental health advocacy within the competitive sports arena is a brave step towards normalising such discussions. As he prepares for the Olympics, his story serves as a reminder that mental health is just as crucial as physical performance. By sharing his experiences, Evelyn O’Higgins not only inspires fellow athletes but also contributes to the broader conversation about mental health, fostering a culture of understanding and support in sports and beyond.