Opening up about mental health...

This and last week, I have had more extremely open and honest conversations about mental health than I think I’ve ever had. 

People close to me are struggling and, at times over the last six months, I have been struggling. 

- The borders are closed

- Those of us from overseas have no idea when we’ll see our families next 

- Our industry has been hit hard (although thankfully seeing a big uplift here)

- There is so much uncertainty and we’ve all been impacted in some way

There’s a lot we don’t know, but there are a few things that I know for sure, as someone who has experienced burn out and who has openly spoken about suffering from anxiety. Hopefully this serves as a reminder for you, or someone you know who may need your support;

- Human connection is crucial - reach out, have open and honest conversations, realise you’re not alone, lean on and support one another 

- Nature is a remedy - get in the ocean, go hiking, be outdoors. The research of the benefits is endless

- Calm your nervous system - switch off your devices, take deep breaths, meditate, exercise, read, limit alcohol and stimulants and try to bring yourself back down to base level 

- Seek help if you need it - we are so lucky in Australia to have access to the mental health care plan - subsidised therapy and psychology making this kind of support affordable. Take advantage of this fantastic initiative 

And finally, as someone who turns to books for solace, I can highly highly recommend Matt Haig’s beautiful (and short) book about anxiety and depression. It’s title is slightly confronting - Reasons to Stay Alive, but it is an uplifting and hopeful book for anyone who needs a reminder that the tough times pass too. (I’ve bought it and gifted it to a number of friends this week, it helps!) 

Be kind to one another, look out for each other. We will get through this!! ??

Chapter 2 - Landing by Haruki Murakami; Matt Haig's Reasons to Stay Alive;

...once the storm is over you won't remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won't even be sure, in fact, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm you won't be the same person who walked in. That's what this storm is all about.