The Weight of Gold 2020

Overview

The Weight of Gold is a documentary film released in the United States on July 29, 2020. With a runtime of one hour, the film explores the mental health challenges faced by Olympic athletes. The documentary highlights that, similar to one in five Americans, many athletes in the Olympic community struggle to find necessary support and resources. By examining the experiences of those celebrated in the spotlight but left in the dark, the film seeks to inspire discussion regarding mental health issues. It encourages individuals to seek help and emphasizes the urgent need for readily available support systems for athletes. The project was directed by Brett Rapkin. Featured participants appearing as themselves in the documentary include Jeremy Bloom, David Boudia, Sasha Cohen, and Lolo Jones. The film serves as a platform to bring attention to the often overlooked psychological difficulties that accompany high-level athletic performance, advocating for a broader understanding and improved access to mental health resources for those who compete on the global stage.