Hello

I’ve always had a passion for travel, but it wasn’t until later in my career that I realised just how important it was for my mental health. I went overseas for the first time at 19 with a close friend. We joined one of those tours that many young Australians seem to go on—an almost rite of passage of sorts. It was a whirlwind experience, with fast-paced days and early mornings, but I didn’t fully appreciate the privilege of travel at the time. The pace didn’t allow for the reflection and connection I needed with the places I visited, and honestly, I don’t remember much of the trip. But that adventure sparked something in me—a deep curiosity for the world beyond Australia.

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In the years that followed, as I continued to work in such a high-stress job, I began to notice the toll it was taking on me. I was young, energetic, and eager, but over time, stress, burnout, and what I now recognise as the early signs of generalised anxiety began to take hold. My heart raced when I heard my pager go off, I struggled to sleep, and I felt an overwhelming sense of tension. It was around this time that I realised I needed to make time for myself, to step away from the grind and recharge in a meaningful way.

That’s when travel truly became a lifesaver for me. A trip to Thailand with a close friend was a turning point—I felt an immediate sense of freedom and calm the moment I arrived. It was the first time in a long time that I could feel myself fully relax, and I realised how essential travel had become for my mental and emotional well-being. Since then, I’ve made travel a regular part of my life—whether it’s a weekend getaway, a solo adventure, or a longer trip with friends or my husband, travel became my reset button.

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But as my anxiety worsened, I realised that travel alone wasn’t enough. I had to learn to incorporate other coping mechanisms into my life. Working with a psychologist has been crucial in understanding my anxiety and learning how to manage it. Through therapy, I’ve learned valuable tools for navigating my emotions and building resilience. Travel is still my go-to escape, but I now recognise the importance of a holistic approach to mental health.

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One of the most empowering aspects of travel is the opportunity to experience different cultures and appreciate the beauty of other countries. It’s humbling to witness how people in different parts of the world live, work, and connect with their surroundings. Travel has shown me the good and the bad, the challenges and the triumphs, and the lessons that come with stepping outside of my comfort zone. There’s so much beauty in the diversity of our world, and I’ve come to understand that true healing often comes from embracing and learning from cultures beyond our own.

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Whether I’m exploring new places on my own, embarking on a solo adventure, or sharing memories with friends and my husband, each trip has taught me something new about myself. I’ve learned that the more I see, the more I grow. Travel has opened my eyes to the richness of life and has taught me how to connect deeply with both myself and the people around me.

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This blog, Anxious to Travel, is my way of sharing the powerful impact travel has had on my life—how it has helped me heal, cope, and connect. If you’re someone who struggles with stress, anxiety, or burnout from a high-pressure job or any other challenge, I hope my story will encourage you to prioritise yourself and your mental health. Travel may not be the only solution, but it’s a powerful tool in helping us cope with the overwhelming nature of life.

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I’m so glad you’re here, and I hope you find inspiration, connection, and empowerment through my experiences. 

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Feel free to drop me a message anytime—I always find that sharing your story and connecting with like-minded people can be healing in its own right.

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xx