Aussie Rewrite with Wit & Stats
Aussie breakdancer Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, 37, has been brutally honest about the mental toll after her break-dancing debut went viral at the Paris Olympics. Already battling anxiety, Gunn said the world’s criticism made her feel “paralysed,” even “panicky” without her husband by her side.
This wasn’t just a rough patch – it “skyrocketed” six months before she even qualified, as the pressure of being the first Australian female Olympic break-dancer ramped up. She started medication and found stepping back from social media, leaning on loved ones, and seeing a psychologist saved her sanity.
Mental Health Journey Chart
| Phase | Key Feelings | Coping Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Olympics build-up | Heightened anxiety, anticipatory dread | Medication started 6 months out |
| Post-Olympics backlash | “Paralysed”, “numb”, frequent crying | Social media detox, husband/friends support |
| Rebuilding confidence | Cautious joy returning, at-home dance feel | Home practice with husband, knitting “mental health scarf”, 80s aerobics on YouTube |
| Current stage | Better days, occasional bad ones | Still seeing psychologist, working at Macquarie Uni |
Highlights & Takeaways
- Paralysed without husband: She felt immobilised without Sammy nearby after the social media backlash.
- Therapy & medication helped: She started anti-anxiety meds pre-Olympics, and learning to switch off social media and seek professional help were turning points.
- Knitting it through anxiety: Her “mental health scarf” is a fibrous symbol of calm—big, colorful, and pressure-free.
- Nostalgic fitness fix: She found her groove again with 1980s Aerobics Oz Style on YouTube—fun, gentle, zero anxiety.
The Real Aussie Take
Raygun’s story is a reminder—mental health battles don’t care about fame or viral accidents. But here’s the thing: putting support, therapy, and small joys front and centre can get you back on your feet.
She explained it best herself:
“This is the stuff you have to explore when you’re struggling with your mental health.”
What’s Next for Raygun?
- Rebuilding her break: Relearning to dance—low pressure, at home, comfort zone first.
- Academic path: Continuing her role marking essays at Macquarie University.
- Creative hobbies: Knitting her way to mental peace, one stitch at a time, planning completion by winter 2027
