ADHD And Simone Biles: What We Can Learn From America's Sweetheart
Start writing a post
Sports

ADHD And Simone Biles: What We Can Learn From America's Sweetheart

"Being open and honest about who you are is nothing to be ashamed of."

53
ADHD And Simone Biles: What We Can Learn From America's Sweetheart
Oasport

One month ago, the entire nation cheered her on as she competed at the largest sporting event in the world. We watched as she conquered, time and time again, in her craft. We saw her grace and maturity off the stage and out of the spotlight. Her dedication is inspiring; her joy, indescribable. 19 year-old Simone Biles has become an overnight sensation, with her success at the 2016 Rio Olympics. She is America's sweetheart, capturing our hearts in the gym and out.

She also has ADHD.

But, why does that matter? Well, it does, but maybe not in the way that you think.

On September 13, leaks of Biles' medical records were released online by a group of Russian hackers, prompting her to disclose the fact that she has taken the controlled substance Ritalin since she was a child to combat the effects of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Biles released the following tweets on Tuesday afternoon:


While the World Anti-Doping Association and USA Gymnastics were quick to jump in and assure the public that Biles filled out the proper paperwork in accordance with the Olympics regarding her medication, the fact still remains: this was an attempt to embarrass and shame Biles for private details of her life.

Well, Biles has proven herself to be more than just a star athlete and American icon: she's a role model.

The attempt to make Biles uncomfortable and ashamed has backfired; as indicated in her tweets, Simone Biles is not ashamed of who she is and how she lives her life. So she needs a little help; don't we all?

Biles has not only proven herself to be a role model for boys and girls in the gym, but also in their own skin. She has shown an attitude that is beyond her 19 years- ADHD is nothing to be ashamed of. Medication to balance these effects is nothing to be ashamed.

Being open and honest about who you are is nothing to be ashamed of.

Simone Biles has just made history again. Because, who knows what 13 year-old is watching this play out, thinking that maybe her ADHD doesn't have to prohibit her from achieving her dreams? Who knows what next Olympian is sitting at their computer screen, reading Biles' response and thinking, "Huh. If she can do it, why can't I?"

Who knows who she is inspiring right now?

We don't need a generation of scared, intimidated children who are afraid to go after what they want because people might make fun of them, or they might not succeed. We need a generation of young people that is willing to stand up and say, "This is who I am, and I don't need your approval."

So, go ahead, do your worst. Simone Biles isn't going anywhere, folks. Get used to it.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

84138
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

50741
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

985286
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments