Olympic gold medalist Aly Raisman recently shared her journey with overtraining, anxiety, and the importance of self-advocacy on an episode of "Healthful" with Norah O'Donnell. Raisman, a former elite gymnast, described how years of intense training and pressure to perform led to a physical breakdown, saying her body "completely just gave up on me." She now encourages people to listen to their bodies and prioritize rest, noting that "If you do not pick a day to rest, your body will pick it for you." Raisman reflected on her rigorous training schedule, which included sessions lasting up to six and a half to seven hours, often six days a week. At the time, her focus was on perfection and winning, leaving little room for recovery. She described herself as a "big people pleaser," often seeking approval from coaches, judges, and others. Even today, she finds it difficult to put her own needs first. Raisman also discussed her experiences with the #MeToo movement, which she said has been both validating and heartbreaking. In 2017, she publicly revealed that she was sexually assaulted by former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. She encourages others who have experienced mistreatment to speak out, emphasizing that "No matter what you've been through, if someone has mistreated you in any capacity, one time is too many, and it's not your fault." Raisman has since heard from many survivors who are "suffering in silence," including those who were abused years ago. She acknowledges the responsibility she carries as a survivor and the importance of support for others. In addition to her advocacy work, Raisman has been open about her ongoing struggles with severe period pain, which have worsened as she has aged. She notes that many women face similar issues and believes the problem lies in the healthcare system rather than individual doctors, who she says are "so exhausted and so overworked." Despite having a strong support system, Raisman admits she still struggles with asking for help and advocating for herself. She encourages others to "take a buddy" to appointments or situations they are nervous about, such as a doctor's visit. She shared a story of helping a friend during an IUD implant procedure, which helped them avoid a dangerous situation. Raisman acknowledges that speaking up to a doctor can still be challenging for her due to her past abuse. She suggests that practicing advocacy is key, even though it can be difficult, and emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community. She concludes by reminding others that they do not have to face these challenges alone.