In an exclusive interview with the media, Aries Dimaunahan, a prominent name in the world of professional sports and an outspoken advocate for mental health, has finally broken her silence on the overwhelming stress and challenges she has faced in recent months. The multi-talented athlete, known for her impeccable performances on the field, has always kept a poised, professional image. But now, she’s opening up to reveal a side of her life that has been hidden from the public eye.
Dimaunahan began by speaking candidly about the pressures that come with being constantly in the limelight. “We lose more than we win, but it’s part of the journey,” she said, her voice steady but filled with emotion. The 28-year-old has been an integral part of her team for years, leading them to numerous victories. However, the recent string of losses has been a heavy burden to carry, both professionally and personally.
“It’s tough,” Dimaunahan continued. “When you’re in a sport where every single move you make is scrutinized by millions, it takes a toll. People think we’re just athletes—they forget we’re human, too. We have our own struggles, our own fights.” Her words reflect the reality that many high-performing athletes face: the relentless pursuit of perfection can often feel like an impossible standard.
But it’s not just the losses on the field that have been weighing heavily on her. Dimaunahan revealed the personal stress she has been experiencing, explaining that she felt trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and pressure to constantly perform at an elite level. “I’ve always been my harshest critic. When we lose, I feel like I’ve failed my teammates, my family, and my fans,” she shared. “It’s exhausting trying to balance the expectations of everyone around you with your own mental health.”
Her admission comes at a time when discussions around athlete mental health are gaining more traction in the mainstream. In recent years, several high-profile athletes, including Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka, have spoken out about the emotional strain that comes with competing at the highest level. Dimaunahan’s words resonate with a growing number of athletes who are choosing to prioritize their well-being over the pressures of fame and performance.
While she acknowledged the importance of her sport and the drive to succeed, Dimaunahan stressed that there must be a shift in how we view the well-being of athletes. “We need to be kinder, not just to each other, but to ourselves,” she said, urging both her peers and fans to recognize the mental health challenges athletes face behind the scenes. “Success should not come at the cost of your peace of mind.”
Dimaunahan’s story is a reminder of the unseen struggles that many athletes face. Despite the shining moments on the field, behind the scenes, there’s a human being who experiences the same vulnerabilities, doubts, and emotional fatigue that everyone else does. As she continues to push forward in her career, she hopes her transparency will help to normalize conversations around mental health and encourage others to seek support when needed.
As for what’s next, Dimaunahan is taking time to focus on herself. “I’m learning to be kinder to myself,” she explained. “Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body.” With her message of resilience, self-compassion, and mental wellness, she is paving the way for a new era in sports—one where athletes are not just valued for their victories, but also for their ability to navigate the complexities of life both on and off the field.
The world watches closely as Dimaunahan continues to break barriers, not only with her athletic prowess but also with her openness and bravery in speaking out about the realities of being an elite athlete.
