A Healthy Push
207: A Pro Athlete on Anxiety, Panic, and a Life-Changing Mental Health Break
27 Oct 2025
Have you ever felt the immense pressure to keep pushing forward, even when your mind and body are screaming for a break? What happens when the thing that once brought you joy becomes a source of overwhelming stress and anxiety?In this incredibly vulnerable and inspiring episode, I sit down with professional soccer player Bethany Balcer to discuss her recent decision to take a mental health break from the sport she loves. Bethany shares the raw details of reaching a breaking point, where the fear of letting her team and family down was overshadowed by the critical need to choose herself.From experiencing her first panic attack during a game to learning how to manage anxiety on the field, Bethany offers a powerful perspective on separating identity from performance. She provides practical insights into the tools that have helped her heal, including the power of neutralizing anxious thoughts, the daily practice of gratitude, and why vulnerability is one of the greatest connectors we have. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating performance pressure, burnout, or the journey of rediscovering themselves outside of their achievements.CHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/the-unseen-game-a-pro-athlete-on-anxiety-burnout-and-a-life-changing-mental-health-break
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