Backpacking and anxiety
Ever since I can remember, I've suffered with anxiety and depression. Having got through a very bad depressive bout, my partner and I decided to go travelling - all the planning and excitement really got me to a good place before we left.
Since arriving, I've had so much bad news from home and it's only been 3 months.. both my mum and nan have been very ill and hospitalised.
The trip hasn't gone as planned so far, I'm finding myself getting very caught up in my head , very anxious and I am very aware I'm ruining my time here (and my partner's).
I am persevering out here, taking it day by day, however being in another country where no one speaks your language and the one person that does, you feel like youre driving crazy with your constant anxieties.
Anyone I know who's been travelling, says how amazing it is, how they'd give anything to go back etc and I am wanting to be at home so much.
Original plan was to be away for a year.. I don't want to let my partner or myself down by leaving early, however the thought of a whole year of this is unthinkable
@fearlessAcai2325 I am sorry you're going through that.
@ReadBooksDrinkTea thank you, hoping it will improve with time
@fearlessAcai2325
Hey there, I can relate to how you feel. I've spent about 5 years combined backpacking, mostly by myself and let me first say that it is NOT all sightseeing and beach combing. Yes it is some of the best years I've had but it was also some of the hardest. It strips you down to your bare self and tests you in strange ways that you couldn't have predicted. A lot of my relationships with folks at home changed and not being there for big events (friends' weddings, family deaths, pet deaths etc) is a surreal and devastating experience. When it comes down to you you've gotta do what makes you happy and what really drives you. If travelling isn't that right now do not feel bad, honour yourself and your feelings by doing something that brings you joy right now. You don't have to make any big decisions straight away, maybe give it another couple weeks and see how you feel. Backpacking seems to have the magical affect of giving you exactly what you need when you least expect it.
Best of luck on your journey.
