A few months ago, I decided to go ahead and book an overseas vacation. I hoped that it would give me something to look forward to, and that it would help to finally put a dent in the anhedonia and apathy that have been such a challenging part of my depression. I decided to go to Italy because it was already high on my list of places I wanted to go, and being a Western European country it seemed like it would be pretty easy logistically. Travelling was always a passion for me, so the notion of travelling for mental health made at least some sense.
Now, as the 3-week trip draws to a close, it’s time to review the good and the bad.
Pros:
- I was having a really hard time just before I left. Knowing I’d soon be able to get away from it all gave me that faintest glimmer of hope to keep on going.
- Present moment focus: It took about a week to really ease into this, but I was able to keep myself mostly in the now for a pretty good chunk of the time.
- It was good to have a break (mostly) from all things work-related. I despise my new employer and I really need to consider whether it’s worth the agitation.
- It was also good to have just a general shift in focus and environment, a way to sort of press reset.
- My energy wasn’t too bad, and I was out and about each day all morning and for the early part of the afternoon.
Cons:
- Too much choice is a bad thing. I was quite lost when it came to picking out restaurants to eat at, so my go-to became supermarkets. Still good food, but I didn’t get the real Italian culinary experience.
- I’m naturally good at organizing. So it really highlighted a deficit when I struggled to figure out how to structure each day. In the end I managed ok, but it was frustrating to have the feeling of looking at my guidebook and my notes and just totally drawing a blank.
- Negative interpersonal experiences: from perv-y hostel guy to being ignored by staff at a cafe, this trip has definitely not helped to restore my faith in humanity
- The anhedonia firmly stayed put. Many of the things I saw that would normally be considered amazing and beautiful came with an attitude of bland indifference.
- My lithium-related lack of coordination was worse than usual, and I managed to wipe out, sprain my ankle, and scrape myself up.
- I am frequently having the feeling that the ground underneath me is vibrating or rocking. I wonder if it might be due to overstimulation or anxiety (even though I don’t feel anxious emotionally). If it continues when I get home I’ll go see my doctor about it.
So, what’s the final assessment? Is travelling for mental health something that actually works? I think while on the trip I did as well as could be expected. Even though I hoped travelling would counteract the anhedonia a bit, realistically I knew that external circumstances would be unlikely to accomplish that. Probably the biggest thing was knowing I would have an escape from my world, which helped me get through a really rough September. Now I head home feeling ever so slightly more able to face my world again, and that at least is a good thing.
Travelling with mental illness: Things to consider
Here are a few things you might want to consider when planning your travels.
Insurance
Make sure you get travel medical insurance. Consider shopping around for a policy that will cover an exacerbation of your pre-existing mental illness.
In 2007, I had planned to do an organized tour across China, Mongolia, and Russia with a couple of friends. Around two months before our planned departure, I ended up in hospital with psychotic depression following a suicide attempt. So much for that trip.
It was the one time I’d ever purchased trip cancellation insurance. I made a claim, but the insurance company came up with excuses to deny it. I’ve never bothered purchasing cancellation insurance again. If you have a pre-existing condition, check if the trip cancellation policy will cover that. This article in Forbes warns that you typically can’t get pre-existing condition waivers for depression and anxiety, so it may not be worth bothering with trip cancellation insurance.
Flights
If you’re struggling with your mental health, airports are probably going to be pretty stressful. Be prepared with music to drown it out or things to soothe you. If you have extra as-needed medication, have that on you.
Medication
Speaking of medications, keep those in your carry-on so you still have them if your checked luggage doesn’t arrive the way it should. If you’re travelling on sleeper trains, keep your meds close to you. I had stuff stolen from my backpack on an overnight train in India, but luckily, my meds were in a bag snuggled up next to me.
If you’re flying or crossing borders, keep your meds in their original labelled bottles from the pharmacy. Don’t bring quantities much larger than what you need for your trip. Even then, border officials may not be impressed that you’re bringing pills into their country; in Uzbekistan, they were puzzled by all my drugs and really had no idea what they should be doing about them. Lack of English posed a problem there, and I certainly didn’t know how to say antidepressant in Uzbek.
The US CDC offers tips on travelling abroad with medications.
Hydration
If you’re going somewhere hot, make sure you keep up your fluid intake. If you’re sweating a lot, or if you’re vomiting or having diarrhea, you need to replace electrolytes. The easiest way to replace sodium is to chow down on a bag of potato chips.
This is extra-important if you take lithium. When you lose sodium and potassium through sweat/vomiting/diarrhea, your body hangs onto more lithium than usual, and you can start to get side effects. Loading up on water alone will further dilute your electrolytes. So drink lots of water, but make sure you’re consuming sources of sodium and potassium (e.g. bananas, coconut water) as well.
Wishing you happy and safe travels!
Hello
I also felt a bit intimidated and outclassed by the other (mostly professional) artists, was simultaneously lonely and crowded, had mild suicidal ideation and cried myself to sleep on several of the nights, and overall it was not the amazing experience it would probably have been if I had been mentally well at the time.destination guides
Traveling is an incredible experience that broadens our horizons and allows us to explore new cultures, traditions, and landscapes. Whether it’s a solo adventure or a group excursion, travel takes us out of our comfort zones and immerses us in unfamiliar surroundings. voyage jordanie
The writer is suggesting that instead of getting a typical gift for someone who enjoys traveling, it might be more useful to get them something practical. vacation in Europe
Pingback: How Travel Can Enhance Mental Health – TRAVOH
I travel a lot and I think it’s important. First of all, traveling is about relaxation and new emotions and experiences. For example, on one of my last trips I traveled to Cozumel in a jeep that I rented here at Rental24h.com and I really enjoyed the trip and it was one of the best. So as soon as you have the opportunity to travel, do it
I travel a lot and I think it’s important.
First of all, traveling is about relaxation and new emotions and experiences. For example, on one of my last trips I traveled to Cozumel in a jeep that I rented here at Rental24h.com and I really enjoyed the trip and it was one of the best. So as soon as you have the opportunity to travel, do it
Love this post! Your travel tips and destination highlights are so helpful and inspiring. Can’t wait to add these spots to my bucket list!european motorcycle tours
This post really hit home for me. I’ve often wondered whether traveling can genuinely improve mental health or if it’s just a temporary distraction. Your honest reflection about managing expectations—especially around anhedonia—was refreshing. It’s powerful to hear that even a slight shift in perspective, like feeling more able to face your world, can make a real difference. Sometimes just knowing there’s an escape route is enough to help us keep going. Thanks for sharing this! lang parkeren rotterdam airport
Wow, your Southeast Asia trip sounds like an unforgettable adventure! I love how you packed so much into just 12 days – from multiple flights and hotel stays to the thrilling leap off a waterfall. It’s interesting that you mentioned it didn’t feel like a vacation; sometimes the most rewarding experiences are the ones that push us out of our comfort zones. I can’t wait to see your upcoming photo post!hotels near Old Town Scottsdale
I can totally relate to that feeling of being mentally drained before a trip and then slowly finding your rhythm again. It’s amazing how a change of scenery and focus can feel like pressing the reset button on life. Getting away from work stress, especially if you dislike your current job, can give you so much clarity. Your description of easing into the present moment really resonates with me—it’s such an underrated skill.Where to stay in Maine
This breakdown of the United States into quadrants and sub-quadrants is such a fascinating way to understand cultural diversity. It’s true that geography, agriculture, and history shape everything from cuisine to social norms. I’ve traveled through the Northeast and Deep South, and the contrasts in food, traditions, and even small talk are striking. Your “pro-tip” hint makes me curious about the advice you’ll give next. Can’t wait to read further!st martin boat charter
Staying in a Sydney luxury home with heated pool or a luxury beachfront home hire Australia property offers a level of comfort and independence unmatched by traditional hotels. Hotels may offer luxury, but they rarely provide the privacy, versatility, and space that a private home does. Guests in luxury rentals can enjoy expansive living areas, gourmet kitchens, entertainment lounges, private gardens, and pools, all designed to create an atmosphere of indulgence. Families especially prefer these rentals, as they provide ample space for children to play, while couples enjoy the intimacy and seclusion that only a private home can provide. Additionally, concierge services, private chefs, and housekeeping are often available, ensuring that guests enjoy a seamless blend of home-like comfort and luxury service. Luxury Beachfront home hire Australia
One of the main attractions of choosing Bodrum as a yacht charter destination is the variety of vessels available. Guests can select from luxury motor yachts, sailing yachts, and the iconic Turkish gulets that define traditional maritime travel in the region. Luxury motor yachts offer speed, modern design, and cutting-edge technology, appealing to travelers who value contemporary luxury. Sailing yachts provide a more adventurous experience, ideal for guests who enjoy hands-on sailing or simply wish to glide quietly through the waters. However, the gulet yacht is the true symbol of Bodrum, handcrafted from wood and designed for both elegance and comfort. These gulets often feature spacious decks, multiple cabins, and experienced crews who deliver exceptional hospitality. Whether a guest seeks romance, family bonding, or corporate retreats, Bodrum’s yacht charter market ensures that every desire is fulfilled with precision and luxury. Motor Yacht Charter Turkey
Sri Lanka is a culturally rich and conservative country. Visitors should dress modestly, especially when entering temples or rural areas. Removing shoes before entering religious sites is customary. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it’s polite to ask before taking photos of locals. English is widely spoken, but learning a few Sinhala or Tamil phrases is appreciated. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for tour guides. Always carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and bottled water. Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive and enriching travel experience. Sri Lanka tours
This is such a thoughtful reflection on the connection between travel and mental health. I really appreciate your honesty about how it’s not a magical cure but can still provide some relief and perspective. Sometimes, just stepping out of our usual routine can give us that tiny spark of strength to face things again. I agree that even small improvements—like feeling “slightly more able”—are still wins worth acknowledging. Great post!fake it until you make