For many travelers, going on a trip is as simple as packing a bag, catching a flight, and getting out to explore or hunkering down on the beach to relax. However, for others, travel can often be plagued by anxiety and apprehension, despite a genuine desire to discover new destinations.
Doug Leddin, a mental health advocate from Dublin, Ireland, exemplifies this struggle. He explores this topic in depth in the latest episode of iBestTravel’s new podcast Let’s Go Together.
Leddin, who owns several bars throughout Ireland, has been candid about his experiences with mental health since 2016. Following a tragic event where a friend’s brother committed suicide, he made a video sharing his own battle with depression. This video aimed to highlight the necessity of open conversations about mental health issues.
“From that moment on I wanted to be part of the solution,” Leddin told Let’s Go Together host Kellee Edwards.
This powerful video rapidly gained traction, amassing millions of views and inspiring others to speak out about their struggles with depression, anxiety, and various mental health challenges.
For Leddin, travel is a vital aspect of life, yet it did not come easily after experiencing a tragic event during his childhood travels. He reflects, “It took until I was about 19 to learn how to deal with traveling and how to cope. There isn’t a single solution that allowed me to travel; it’s a combination of factors including support from doctors and friends, and learning to manage the anxiety associated with being far from home.”
During this episode, Leddin, who has traveled extensively around the globe, including Bali for his honeymoon last summer, shares practical advice for those navigating travel while managing depression, anxiety, and stress. Moreover, he discusses how people can be supportive allies to those facing mental health challenges.
“Do something that makes you happy and smile. It’s your holiday and experience. You should enjoy it on your terms, in your own time, with the people you choose—those who make you feel supported and not alone.”
To hear more from Doug Leddin, tune in to Let’s Go Together, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
