In 2021, I was fortunate enough to participate in the Heritage Ride alongside my Dad. The Ride for Youth and Youth Focus has been discussed in my family for as long as I can remember, and it was amazing to participate and have this experience with Dad and many other family friends.
The past few years, I have experienced my own mental health journey. While it has been challenging, I have always been supported by family, friends and health professionals who have helped to guide me through this difficult time and stood by me through the ups and downs. I am extremely fortunate and so grateful for the support network I have available to me.
Community and support were one of the main factors that kept me determined to persevere through my bad days. Youth Focus is so important as it provides community and support to those who may not feel comfortable to reach out or may not have the means of accessing support on their own. No one is expected to fight any illness or disease on their own, and mental health is no different.
I will be participating in the 2024 Ride with a very different perspective. My experience has led to me connecting with Youth Focus and the importance of Ride for Youth on a personal level, and I hope that I can use my story to help others realise that mental health does not have to be faced alone and that it will get better and there will be brighter days.
