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SportsGerman Olympic race walker Jonathan Hilbert returns to training after severe depression
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Jonathan Hilbert, the 31-year-old German Olympic silver medalist in race walking from Tokyo 2020, has returned to training after a severe depressive episode that forced him to pause competitive sports in May 2026. In an Instagram post titled 'Depression Update,' Hilbert revealed he experienced a 'rollercoaster ride' during the first eight weeks of withdrawal and was diagnosed with a severe depressive episode. After initially fearing side effects, he decided to take medication, switching from a first ineffective drug to a second that improved his mood and drive. Hilbert is now resuming his studies and structured training, with a camp planned for November and a goal to compete again next year. However, he stated that if he experiences another episode of this severity, he will withdraw from competitive sports permanently. His primary focus remains stability, health, and regaining joy in life.
Source report
These words are sure to bring a smile to the faces of everyone close to athlete Jonathan Hilbert (31). In an Instagram post, the race walker writes: "After 3 months of standstill and pause, I am feeling better."
On May 16, the Olympic silver medalist from Tokyo had made his renewed depressive illness public and taken a break from competitive sports. Now he is training again.
Depression Update
Under the title "Depression Update," Hilbert writes:
- "The first 8 weeks after the withdrawal were quite a rollercoaster ride."
- "With the resumption of therapy, it quickly became clear that it was a severe depressive episode."
- "So the option of taking medication was also on the table. I have kept that option open since 2024."
Hilbert said he feared the side effects. He explains: "But this time I realized that I wouldn't just get out of this episode easily." That is why he decided to take medication this time.
A first drug did not help. After switching to another preparation, Hilbert finally felt better.
A Marathon, Not a Sprint
He recounts: "The drive came back, the thoughts became brighter again." And further: "My big goal is stability, health, and simply having fun and joy in life again. So the first step is taken. But this illness is not a 100-meter sprint. Rather a marathon."
Return to Training and Studies
Now Hilbert is resuming his studies and also starting structured training again. The best news: "And I feel like it. I have strength again and feel joy."
A first training camp is also planned for November. Next year, Hilbert also wants to compete again.
A Clear Boundary
But for him, it is also clear: "If I experience a depressive episode of this severity again, I will completely withdraw from competitive sports and end my career."
Source
BILD - SportWestern
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German Olympic Race Walker Jonathan Hilbert Returns to Training After Severe Depression