Gabi Butler Opens Up About Balancing Mental Health and Public Pressure, Says All Athletes Feel ‘Defeated’ at Times (Exclusive)

**Gabi Butler Advocates for Mental Well-being Among Athletes on World Mental Health Day**

In a recent conversation reflecting on World Mental Health Day, celebrated on 10 October, Gabi Butler, a prominent figure in the cheerleading community and two-time national champion, highlighted the crucial connection between athletes’ mental health and their performance. The 28-year-old athlete, who has dedicated over 20 years to cheerleading, understands the emotional complexities inherent in the sport, as well as the pressure faced by athletes at all levels.

During an interview with PEOPLE, Butler emphasised that maintaining mental health is paramount, particularly for athletes engaged in high-pressure sports such as cheerleading. “Every great athlete has had days where they feel defeated, and that’s completely okay,” Butler stated. She believes that acknowledging and addressing mental health is essential for overall athletic success.

Butler, who often finds solace in nature on hikes, shared her current struggles, including her father’s battle with cancer and her recovery from a non-serious injury. She described how escaping the noise of daily life and immersing herself in outdoor activities helps her recharge both mentally and physically. “This is a way that I get to unplug and help my mental well-being,” she said, reflecting on the importance of finding personal outlets.

The athlete also observed a growing dialogue around mental health within sports, particularly among gymnasts and cheerleaders who often perform under intense scrutiny. “A lot of what we do is extremely mental. We need to maintain our focus, and cheerleading is not a sport that can be approached casually,” she explained. The dynamic nature of team sports requires unwavering commitment, making it vital for teammates to support one another during challenging times.

Determined to foster a supportive environment, Butler shared insights on how teamwork can strengthen mental resilience among athletes. She noted that she can often sense when a teammate is struggling: “You can tell when someone is going through a rough patch,” she said. Encouraging open communication can empower athletes to seek help when needed, strengthening the bonds within the team.

In the digital age, Butler also acknowledged the challenges posed by social media, which can amplify pressure and lead to negative comments about a person’s performance or character. “It’s important to remember that the naysayers don’t pay your bills,” she asserted, urging athletes to focus on their own lives rather than external judgments. She encouraged individuals to remain true to themselves and seek out genuine relationships.

Recognising that young cheerleaders will eventually face similar pressures, Butler advised the next generation to hone their skills diligently and to disregard naysayers. “Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. If you listen to those people, they will just hold you back,” she stated. Confidence and self-belief, she insists, can be powerful tools for personal growth.

Butler highlighted the significance of mental resilience, stating that a powerful mindset is critical for achieving success. “Our brains are a lot more powerful than we even realise,” she claimed, emphasising the influence of self-support and self-acceptance on an athlete’s journey. “If you are your biggest fan, I believe there are so many things that can happen for you.”

Despite the inevitable setbacks that every athlete experiences, Butler encouraged individuals to use these moments as motivation. “Having those bad days is a good reminder of, ‘I don’t want to feel like this again. What do I have to do to get better?’” she said, pointing out that overcoming challenges ultimately strengthens an athlete’s character.

Looking towards the future of cheerleading, Butler expressed optimism about the new generation of performers. She noted that they are setting unprecedented standards, contributing to a more robust and dynamic realm of cheerleading. “The Pro Cheer League is opening a lot of doors for cheerleading,” she said, excited about the opportunities available to young athletes that were not accessible in her earlier years.

While Butler acknowledged that dedication and hard work are essential to success in cheerleading, she firmly believes the effort is worthwhile. “It takes countless hours spent in the gym, but the payoff is amazing,” she concluded, embodying a spirit of resilience that she hopes will inspire future athletes to prioritise their mental health and pursue their passions with ardour.