How athlete burnout led me to psychology | Ariella Kaeslin | TEDxZurich Women
In the high-pressure world of elite gymnastics, the pursuit of perfection can take a devastating toll. By 25, Ariella Kaeslin found herself lost, defined only by her sport, struggling with burnout, depression, and even suicidal thoughts after years of meeting rigid body standards and societal expectations. But in losing her identity, she found an opportunity for transformation. In this talk, Ariella shares her journey of reclaiming herself—coming out as a queer woman, pursuing studies in sports science and physiotherapy, and now working toward a master's in psychology. Today, she's dedicated to helping others navigate their own struggles in psychiatric care, proving that it’s never too late to rebuild and find new purpose. Ariella Kaeslin is a former Swiss elite gymnast who represented her country at the Olympic Games and World Championships, earning numerous titles throughout her career. After years of intense dedication, she faced burnout, leading her to step away from the sport and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Ariella holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science and Physiotherapy and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Psychology. Today, she is an advocate for mental health and well-being, combining her athletic experience and academic knowledge to inspire others to find balance and resilience in high-performance environments. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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