Mental Health Awareness Month | Reflections from Madi Hoffman

Each October is Mental Health Awareness Month, prompting all of us to reflect on our own wellbeing.

This year’s theme, “Let’s Talk About It,” is a nudge to reflect on our own mental health and overall wellbeing, irrespective of whether we’ve personally encountered mental illness.

It emphasises the significance of maintaining good mental health in our daily lives and encourages a proactive approach to seeking help when necessary.

For World Cup Alpine skier Madi Hoffman, regularly reflecting on her mental health enables her to be conscious of the balance required to live the life of an international athlete, spending much of the year away from home and loved ones.

Competing at the highest level in any sport is always a challenging endeavour, especially when it means living on the road for up to six months a year," she says. Over time, I’ve learned the importance of taking care of the mental side of ski racing just as much as the physical.

"For me, that means staying present and grounded. Whether it’s journaling after training, baking something delicious on a day off, finding a spot for an ice bath, doing a puzzle, or even just making a sandwich to break up the European pasta-and-pizza routine, these small things help me feel more like myself.

"Balancing the fast-paced environment of World Cup ski racing with these simple rituals helps me stay centered among all the craziness.

"I’ve come to realise that taking care of my mental health not only helps me recharge but also makes me a better athlete.

"At the end of the day, the happiest, healthiest version of me is also the fastest, and I would say that’s a win all around."

Cross Country skier Seve de Campo is an ambassador for the Black Dog x AIS Mental Fitness Program, where he has been able to share meaningful lessons and tips around dealing with mental health challenges to high school students across various institutions. 

There is no end to our journeys with Mental Health," he says. "This program has been complementary to my own personal growth, I am personally reminded of the importance of being kind to yourself and to others.

"I’m not presenting to a bunch of 15-year-olds saying I have all the answers; the fun the essence of life (going deep here) is figuring out the answers yourself.

"I’m here as an ambassador to give some practical tips for students and share some of my own experiences to hopefully make high school a richer experience."

Click here for more information about the Australian Institute of Sport's Mental Fitness Program.