Raygun's Olympic Struggles and Defiance Against Trolls in Paris
- Rachael Gunn, known as Raygun, experienced significant anxiety and emotional distress after going viral for her breakdancing at the Paris Olympics.
- She is actively working through her mental health challenges, employing strategies such as therapy and exercise to help manage her anxiety.
- Gunn believes that the harsh reactions to her performances are amplified by gender bias, asserting her determination to rise above criticism and reclaim her identity.
In recent months, Rachael Gunn, known as Raygun, has discussed the psychological challenges she has faced following her viral breakdancing performances at the Paris Olympics. As Australia's first female breakdancing competitor, she highlighted the significant emotional toll and anxiety that have accompanied her newfound fame. Gunn shared her experiences of feeling shame from public criticism and how this has impacted her mental well-being. To cope, she has been active in seeking help from her psychologist, engaging in physical exercise, and practicing breathing techniques. Observing societal reactions, she noted that she feels gender bias in the responses to her performance, suggesting that had she been male, the results would likely have been less harsh. This ordeal has forced her to reevaluate her identity and the perception that the public now holds of her, which adds complexity to her daily life. Despite the challenges, she remains determined to overcome negative reactions, asserting her resilience against her critics as a crucial part of her journey towards mental health recovery.