Mikaela Shiffrin confronts PTSD while training for World Cup finals

In Sun Valley, Idaho, Mikaela Shiffrin has been steadily working to overcome the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder following a crash during a giant slalom race in November. She has reported that her flashbacks to the incident have decreased during training sessions. While other racers compete in the giant slalom, Shiffrin plans to focus on slalom training in preparation for her upcoming race. Her practice sessions have shown improvements, with Shiffrin regaining confidence in her skiing after having to recover from the intense psychological impact of her accident. Collaborating with a psychologist has aided Shiffrin in managing her racing anxiety and PTSD symptoms. This current season marks a significant emotional journey for Shiffrin. Five years have passed since the death of her father, Jeff Shiffrin, and she frequently reflects on how he would react to her accomplishments, including achieving her 100th World Cup win. The emotional toll of that loss, combined with her recent experiences, has intensified her thoughts about her father, especially as she approaches significant events like the Olympics. Shiffrin expresses a desire for her father to have witnessed her successes and is sensitive to comments implying how proud he would have been, preferring instead to remember their shared goal of simply skiing well. With the Winter Olympics approaching, Shiffrin draws strength from her remaining family, including her mother and brother, which helps bolster her confidence against the backdrop of her father's memory. As she gears up for her slalom race, Shiffrin is focused on maintaining a clear mindset and strong execution on the course to regain her competitive edge. She acknowledges the challenges ahead, including relinquishing her overall slalom title, but remains determined to perform her best as she continues to heal and adapt to the pressures of elite ski racing. Shiffrin's journey this season reflects the intersection of resilience in the face of personal trauma and the relentless pursuit of athletic excellence. Her commitment to mental health and well-being demonstrates a broader recognition in sports regarding the impact of psychological challenges that athletes face. This realization is vital, as it paves the way for open discussions about mental health, encouraging athletes to seek help when navigating difficult circumstances.