Three-time GB Olympic swimming champion Adam Peaty has opened up about his his battle with depression and alcohol. Peaty, 28, said he was stuck in a "self-destructive spiral" with a "devil on his shoulder".

But the talented swimmer, who specialises in breaststroke, says he is now much healthier after learning to live with his demons and not letting his inner dialogue of not being good enough beat him. Born in Uttoxeter, Peaty told the BBC in a revealing interview that he understands gold medals will not solve his problems.

"A good friend of mine said a gold medal is the coldest thing you will ever wear," Peaty said. "It's the coldest thing because you think it will fix all of your problems - it will not."

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Peaty, who competed at 2022 Commonwealth Games, added that his depression and battle with alcohol worsened last year as he struggled with injury. He also revealed that he found it difficult to find motivation after his relationship with his son's mum broke down.

The Olympian would go into a competition with a voice in his head telling him "you don't deserve this", he said. "A lot of athletes do struggle with alcohol. You're constantly looking for a high or a reward.

"I was in a place where I wasn't really happy with how it started to control my life and my social circles. It's quite difficult to manage, but that's why people do struggle with it.

"I've sought help with that and my life has improved. I'm able to live life a lot more positively."

Peaty, who pulled out of April's British Championships, citing mental health issues, still intends to compete at next year's Olympic Games in Paris.

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