On Deck With Declan

R U OK, Constant Reader?

Yesterday was a special day when we asked each other how we were feeling. An opportunity to have an open and honest conversation, you and I.

One of my mother’s favourite sayings is: “A problem shared is a problem halved.” I believe in that more than I could ever express.

I think we’re very fortunate to live in a time when mental health awareness is becoming so de-stigmatised. I’m sure that a lot of people out there remember when it wasn’t – it hasn’t been the case in my lifetime – and I count myself so lucky for that.

Yesterday was an exceptional example of that growing awareness, as the non-for-profit charity R U OK? spread its message of how conversation can change lives. Across the country, people asked (and should continue to ask) each other how they’re travelling.

R U OK? Day is just brilliant, isn’t it?

So, for something different in my return to the Editor’s hot seat this week, I’ve got an offer: I want to tell you how I’m feeling, and for you to send me email to tell me how you’re going, too. Because we all struggle a little sometimes, and there’s power in telling each other that.

For me, this week’s been a bit tough. Lots of things conspiring to make me feel overwhelmed, to make me feel inadequate, I suppose. Those feelings feed off each other, and it’s a cycle that I know all too well. So, what have I done about it? I’ve told people. I spoke to good friends, to family, and I spoke to anyone who would listen. I got out and about, I went for walks and runs, and I practiced mindfulness – because not everything your brain tells you is true, nor is it helpful.

So, that’s how I’m feeling. What about you?

Email me at declan@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

Quote of the week:

“I can see the sun, but even if I cannot see the sun, I know that it exists. And to know that the sun is there - that is living.”- Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov

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