Scots speed skater Elise Christie opens up about her two-year battle with depression and anxiety

Elise Christie has spoken of a two-year battle with mental health and her joy of coming off antidepressants.

The 28-year-old Scottish speed skater is a three-time world champion but suffered high-profile short track failures at the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Christie broke up with her boyfriend, Hungarian skater Shaolin Sandor Liu in the wake of her Olympic disappointments, and in a candid Instagram post, revealed the depth of her struggles.

In the wake of the Sochi Games, Christie was subjected to death threats and abuse online, but said on Thursday: “So this post might come as a surprise to many, but as a huge supporter in raising awareness of mental health, especially in sport and supporting the forward movement of being able to talk more openly, there’s something I feel that’s important to share.

“During the time I was on medication for two years I felt I couldn’t openly speak about it, I suffered for two years with depression and anxiety, it prevented me being myself and unfortunately I ended up on anti-depressants.

“I’m now really proud to say that I’ve officially managed to get myself off anti-depressants and become more myself again!”

© Mike Egerton/PA

Christie, who is targeting medals at the 2022 Winter Games, added she was enjoying being free of depression and thanked those who stood by her.

“It’s been amazing to feel happiness and sadness again, to not feel nothing…. there’s a huge list of people I’m owe thanks to, especially during my toughest hours when I hid away from the world and locked everyone out… so many people that loved me and were there through it all!” she said.

“So a massive thank you to everyone that stood by me, and to those that didn’t you now don’t deserve me at my best ! Let’s beat depression together.”