Mikaela Shiffrin’s remarkable recovery from a near-catastrophic injury in November 2024, coupled with her ongoing pursuit of Olympic and World Cup glory, highlights not only her physical prowess but also her sophisticated approach to mental health. The American skiing star, now 30, has openly discussed the psychological challenges she faced—particularly post-traumatic stress following her Killington crash and the lingering grief from her father’s death in 2020. Her mental health strategies, forged through therapy, self-reflection, and a supportive team, offer a blueprint for resilience under pressure. Here’s a detailed look at the key strategies Shiffrin employs to maintain her mental edge:
1. Therapy and Professional Support
Shiffrin has leaned heavily on mental health professionals to navigate the psychological fallout of her 2024 crash, which triggered flashbacks and a “mental fog” that impaired her ability to visualize courses. She sought consultations with experts across sports, drawing on their insights to address post-traumatic stress. Therapy helped her process fear and reframe her relationship with high-stakes racing, particularly in giant slalom, where the crash occurred. By working with specialists, she tackled the disconnect between her mind and body, gradually rebuilding confidence to compete at her world-class level.
2. Mindfulness and Visualization Techniques
Visualization has long been a cornerstone of Shiffrin’s preparation, but post-injury, it required recalibration. The crash left her struggling to “see” courses, a critical skill for anticipating turns at breakneck speeds. To counter this, she adopted mindfulness practices to stay present and reduce anxiety. These techniques, honed with her team, helped her manage the “fight or flight” response that surfaced during runs. By focusing on controlled breathing and grounding exercises, Shiffrin regained her ability to mentally map courses, turning fear into focus.
3. Structured Support System
Shiffrin credits her mother and coach, Eileen Shiffrin, a former nurse, for providing both emotional and strategic support. Eileen’s dual role as a maternal figure and technical guide created a safe space for Shiffrin to process setbacks. Additionally, physiotherapist Regan Dewhirst played a pivotal role in aligning her physical recovery with mental readiness, ensuring Shiffrin didn’t rush back prematurely. This tight-knit team fostered open communication, allowing Shiffrin to voice fears without judgment and collaboratively develop strategies to rebuild her mental resilience.
4. Reframing Challenges as Opportunities
Shiffrin’s bold mindset—“The Olympics are not happening to me, I’m happening to them”—reflects her deliberate reframing of adversity. Rather than viewing injuries or competitive pressure as obstacles, she sees them as chances to grow. This shift was critical after Beijing 2022, where three falls and no medals tested her resolve. By embracing a proactive attitude, she channels setbacks into motivation, focusing on what she can control, like her training and event selection for the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics.
5. Gradual Exposure to Triggers
To overcome her fear of giant slalom, where her crash occurred, Shiffrin employed a gradual exposure approach. She didn’t shy away from the discipline but instead reintroduced it methodically, starting with low-pressure training runs. This strategy, supported by her team, allowed her to desensitize herself to the trauma associated with the event, rebuilding confidence without overwhelming her psyche. Her 10th-place finish in Courchevel in January 2025 marked a significant step in reclaiming her mental space on the slopes.
6. Balancing Rest and Engagement
Recognizing the toll of a grueling season, Shiffrin prioritizes mental recovery through rest and selective event participation. For 2026, she’s streamlined her Olympic focus to three events—slalom, giant slalom, and team combined—to preserve energy and mental clarity. Off the slopes, she engages in creative outlets like her upcoming podcast, “What’s the Point with Mikaela Shiffrin,” which allows her to connect with others and explore interests beyond skiing. This balance prevents burnout and keeps her mentally fresh.
7. Community and Purpose-Driven Advocacy
Shiffrin’s mental health strategy extends beyond herself. Her involvement in initiatives like supporting Los Angeles wildfire victims via GoFundMe reflects a purpose-driven approach that bolsters her emotional resilience. By giving back, she finds perspective, grounding her in values that transcend competition. This sense of purpose helps her manage the pressures of being a public figure and elite athlete, reinforcing her mental fortitude.
8. Embracing Vulnerability
Shiffrin’s willingness to speak openly about her struggles—whether it’s the grief of losing her father or the anxiety post-crash—sets her apart. By sharing her journey, she normalizes mental health challenges in sports, reducing stigma and building a supportive community. This vulnerability, far from being a weakness, empowers her to confront fears head-on, knowing she’s not alone in her struggles.
As Shiffrin prepares for the World Cup opener in Sölden on October 25, 2025, her mental health strategies are as critical as her physical training. With therapy, mindfulness, a strong support system, and a reframed mindset, she’s not just racing toward Olympic gold—she’s redefining what it means to thrive under pressure. In her words, she’s not just showing up to the Olympics; she’s making them her own.
