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"Aussie Olympian Leisel Jones’ Heartbreaking Photo Unveils Disturbing Tale, Sparking Fan Concerns"

Aussie Olympian Leisel Jones Shares Brave Mental Health Message

Australian swimming legend Leisel Jones has opened up about her ongoing mental health struggles, posting a raw social media update that included a tearful photo from one of her “worst days.” The three-time Olympic gold medalist revealed she battled suicidal thoughts but urged others to “stay until tomorrow” in hopes of brighter days.

Dark Moments and a Lifeline
Jones, 38, shared two photos on Tuesday: one showing her in tears, captioned, “Stay until tomorrow. Yesterday was one of my worst days, and I wanted to end it all.” She disclosed her recent struggles with high-functioning depression and returning to therapy. “In the dark moments, I promise myself to just stay until tomorrow… it’s amazing what the next day can bring,” she wrote.

Jones shared this emotional photo, emphasizing the importance of hope during low moments.

Finding Light After the Storm
The following day, Jones described a “spectacular” turnaround after a solo beach walk. “No goals. Just enjoy the sunshine,” she wrote, adding, “It changed my whole perspective.” Her post concluded with a heartfelt plea: “If life has felt like a kick in the c**t lately, promise me you’ll stay until tomorrow.”

Support from the Sporting Community
Fellow Olympians flooded her comments with support. Swimmer Hayley Lewis offered to talk, cyclist Anna Meares wrote, “You’re loved,” and media personality Sami Lukis praised her bravery. Jones’ openness builds on her longstanding advocacy for mental health awareness, stemming from her own near-tragedy 14 years ago.

Jones has been candid about her journey since a 2011 suicide attempt.

A Turning Point in 2011
Earlier this year, Jones recounted contemplating suicide during a training trip to Spain. Her coach, Rohan Taylor (now Swimming Australia’s head coach), intervened, taking her to seek help. “I didn’t care for my mental health… it was neglected,” she admitted. Jones criticized the stigma she faced early in her career, recalling being denied access to a psychologist at 14: “They were seen as for weak athletes.”

Championing Change
Now a vocal advocate, Jones stresses the mind-body connection in athletics. “The light will always be there, but sometimes you have to light it yourself,” she said, crediting therapy and mental health plans. “It’s gritty, awful work… but worth it.”

Jones at the peak of her career, breaking the 100m breaststroke world record in 2003.

A Legacy of Resilience
Jones’ accolades include nine Olympic medals, 10 Commonwealth Games golds, and 23 national titles. Her courage extends beyond the pool, however, as she continues to normalize conversations about mental health. “Recognizing you need help is brave,” she said. “There is hope.”

Jones credits her coach with saving her life during her 2011 crisis in Spain.

By sharing her journey, Jones reminds others that even champions face invisible battles—and that reaching out can be the first stroke toward healing.