Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health and Mental Health While Traveling!!

Join Me in Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

As someone who has struggled with mental health from a young age, I understand how important it is to talk about these issues. Mental health matters, and it's okay not to be okay. Depression is real, anxiety can be crippling and everyone is dealing with things they don’t speak about.

Let’s break the stigma and realize that mental health is real. Many people are silently battling every day. It’s time to speak up and support each other.

To raise awareness and fundraise for this crucial cause, I will be skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef on my 26th birthday. This act is a symbol of overcoming challenges and showing that you can push through even the toughest battles.

Despite what might seem like a perfect life—filled with travel and adventure—I face mental health challenges every day. My journey has taught me that you can do anything you set your mind to, and it’s vital not to let mental health struggles win.

Traveling can bring some of the best memories but can also be incredibly challenging for those with mental health conditions.. 

We think that the point of holidays/travel is to feel relaxed, happy and carefree but in reality it makes complete sense that this might instead trigger low mood. Sometimes you feel worse purely because you think you’re supposed to feel great, and then you feel bad about feeling bad. But put it into perspective, holidays and travelling often mean:

• Stepping out of your comfort zone – all of a sudden you’re somewhere that you don’t know, away from your trusty sofa and favourite mug.
• Lack of routine – people totally underestimate the importance of a routine for good mental health.
• Lack of distractions – solo traveling gives you a lot of time on your own at and gives you a lot of time to think about things, your mind is going to wander and it doesn’t always go to the best places.
• Lack of personal space – some people travel alone, but sometime when travelling you can be around people 24/7 in hostels ect. and that can be overwhelming if you’re used to being able to take yourself away for some much needed alone time.
• Stressful journies – getting to the airport 2 hours before your flight, finding your gate, being on a hot plane, navigating through a foreign city to your hotel… the list goes on!

the challenges of constant travel and uncertainty can significantly affect mental health. The lack of stability, regular work, and a permanent home can lead to stress and anxiety. It's important to find ways to cope with these challenges, such as establishing routines, seeking support, and taking time for self-care.

My advice is go and have the trip of a lifetime, full of food, drink and new experiences but don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed or anxious. And just because you have a few bad days it doesn’t mean you can’t turn it around and enjoy the experience too.

Remember, it's okay to experience anxiety or stress while traveling. Recognize your feelings, be kind to yourself, and don't hesitate to seek help if you need it. Your mental health is important, and taking steps to manage it while traveling can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

Here are some tips for managing mental health while traveling:

1. Don’t Beat Yourself Up: It’s okay if you don’t feel great all the time. Travel can disrupt routines, and lack of familiar support can be stressful.
2. Do What Makes You Feel Better: Listen to your needs. If you need to take a break and relax instead of sightseeing, that’s perfectly fine.
3. Remember Perfect Holidays Don’t Exist: Social media often shows a highlight reel of perfect moments. It’s normal to have ups and downs during your travels.

Availability of mental health resources, such as counseling and support groups, can be accessed even while traveling!

To learn more about mental health support for UK residents abroad, check out this guide. https://letstalkaboutsuicide.co.uk/mental-health-support-for-uk-residents-when-abroad/

Your support can make a difference. Let’s work together to raise awareness and support those who struggle with mental health every day. And remember what you are feeling is valid. 

Trust the process, believe in yourself, and never, ever give up on chasing your dreams.

I would also like to give a special shout-out to the Bakehouse Espresso Group, Production Cafe Huskisson for their efforts in promoting better mental health awareness in their push for better challenge this month.

Together, we can make a change. Thank you for your support.