Are you feeling overwhelmed?
Many people experience periods of mental health difficulty at some point in life. Feeling overwhelmed, distressed, or unable to cope is more common than we often realise, and supporting good mental health is something we can all work towards, even though it isn’t always easy to do alone.
There was a time in my life when my own mental health declined significantly and I felt overwhelmed by everything around me. You can read my story here. What helped me was not one single solution, but a combination of support, time, and finding ways to reconnect with myself and the world around me.
Research shows that time spent outdoors and in nature can support wellbeing by helping to:
- Reduce stress levels
- Ease symptoms associated with anxiety and low mood
- Support emotional regulation
- Lower blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension
- Improve both physical and mental health
- Reduce stress hormones such as cortisol
Time in nature, including walking and hiking, can be a valuable part of looking after mental health. However, it is important to be clear that nature and physical activity are supportive tools, not replacements for professional care when it is needed.
But what if you need help now?
If you are in immediate danger, or at risk of harming yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000.
We all have ups and downs, sometimes things feel manageable, and sometimes they don’t. If something doesn’t feel right, or you’re struggling to cope, reaching out to someone can make a real difference, and support is available regardless of who you are or what you’re going through.
National help lines and websites
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue provides information and support to help people in Australia maintain good mental health, wherever they live and whatever their age.
MumSpace – Perinatal Anxiety and Depression
MumSpace supports the mental health and emotional wellbeing of pregnant women, new mothers, and their families, helping people connect with the right level of support.
DadSpace – You are not alone
DadSpace provides support for the emotional health of fathers who are expecting or have a new baby.
Black Dog Institute
Information on symptoms, treatment, and prevention of depression and bipolar disorder.
Carers Australia
Short term counselling and emotional support for carers and their families.
1800 242 636
Headspace
Support for young people aged 12 to 25 and their families.
1800 650 890
Kids Helpline
Confidential counselling for young people aged 5 to 25.
1800 55 1800
MensLine Australia
Support and referral service for men dealing with relationship or emotional challenges.
1300 78 99 78
Medicare Mental Health
A government backed website that helps you find free and low cost mental health resources.
MindSpot Clinic
Free online and telephone assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression.
1800 61 44 34
National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
Access to Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services across Australia.
QLife
Counselling and referral service for LGBTI people.
1800 184 527 | 3pm–12am
Relationships Australia
Relationship support services for individuals, families, and communities.
1300 364 277
SANE Australia
Information, support, and guidance for people affected by mental illness.
1800 18 7263
Support After Suicide
Support and resources for people bereaved by suicide, as well as education for professionals.
Support groups and online forums
Talking with others who understand what you are going through can help reduce isolation and provide perspective. The Black Dog Institute provides a list of support groups in every state and territory.
The beyondblue online forums also offer a safe and anonymous space to connect with others experiencing anxiety, depression, and other challenges.
If you are struggling, you do not have to handle it alone. Reaching out is a strong and important first step.
Explore related guides
- Mental health benefits of hiking, through lived experience and support
- Hiking for perinatal mental health
- How nature and time outdoors can support mental wellbeing
- Walk your way to wellbeing: Building a simple outdoor habit that supports body and mind
- The benefits of hiking for physical health, mental wellbeing, and connection
What’s your go-to way to connect with nature when you’re feeling overwhelmed, and how has it helped you?
Trail Hiking Australia I went through a terrible time in 2022. Black dog and lots of challenges thrown at me including PTSD. My closest friends took me waterfall hunting where with no one else around I could scream, yell and wail. Letting all the pain and emotions out in a safe way except scaring the wildlife ☺️. After getting stronger, it was the mountains and when injured, explored simple things. I like solidarity but also the company of small groups. Not a fan of big groups…. Yes. The wilderness has helped so much and maintains my very healthy mental health now. So hearing you loud and clear Darren and thanks for sharing ☺️🥰
Karen Jane Hawkins thanks so much for sharing your story. So great to hear your friend took you chasing waterfalls. I understand just how therapeutic screaming out loud would have been. It’s really important to let it out. I’m glad you found your happy place in nature. xx