Ryan Lochte opens up about struggles with depression following near-fatal car crash
Ryan Lochte is candidly sharing his emotional journey after a nearly fatal car accident that occurred a year ago, an event he describes as life-altering. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 40-year-old former Olympic swimmer marked the anniversary of this traumatic incident, revealing the profound impact it had on his mental state.
Reflecting on the accident that “almost took everything” from him, Lochte recounted how it plunged him back into depression. He expressed deep feelings of uncertainty regarding his role as a father, husband, and individual. “A car accident nearly took everything from me—and for a long time, it felt like it had,” Lochte wrote, alongside a touching video of him enjoying precious moments in the pool with his children.
Lochte described the struggle to rediscover his identity amid the darkness that enveloped him. However, he emphasized that he was not alone in his battle. “Thanks to the love and support of incredible people in my life, I began to rise from that darkness,” he said. He acknowledged the encouragement he received from loved ones who helped him realize his inner strength.
Today, Lochte feels empowered and determined to fight for his family, dreams, and the life he aspires to lead. “This year has shown me that setbacks do not define us—our comebacks do,” he asserted, celebrating the resilience and love that have fueled his recovery journey. He expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him through this challenging period.
The accident occurred while Lochte was picking up his children from school, when he inadvertently crashed into a parked trash truck on a busy street. His wife, Kayla Rae Reed, has also provided updates on Lochte’s recovery process, commending his unwavering dedication. Just a few months ago, she praised his progress, stating, “This guy has been putting in the work one step at a time, literally!”
As they navigate the aftermath of the accident, Lochte and Reed continue to focus on resilience and the strength that comes from their supportive family dynamic. With his eye on a brighter future, Lochte’s journey demonstrates the healing power of love, community, and self-determination.
