Part 1: Embracing Mental Health as Essential Health

As equestrians, we understand the importance of physical health. We train rigorously, care meticulously for our horses, and pay attention to every detail of our physical well-being. Yet, how often do we pause to consider our mental health with the same intensity? The truth is, mental health is just as critical as physical health, and it’s time we started treating it that way.

We live in a world where mental health is often sidelined, overshadowed by the more visible aspects of our lives. But consider this: just as all equestrians tell me... a horse cannot perform at its best without proper physical care vets, farrier, the various foods or supplements they need... from massage therapists to equine physios.... you get the point... how then can we be expected to perform at our best without proper mental and physical care? Honestly?

The connection between mind and body is undeniable. Ignoring mental health is like neglecting to shoe your horse or forgetting to feed it the right diet—eventually, it will affect performance and overall well-being.

"You can’t control the feeling, but you can control your response."

Feelings are transient:

Reflect on the hardest days you’ve faced. The moments when everything seemed insurmountable, and yet, here you are. You've survived 100% of those days. This isn’t just a testament to your resilience but a powerful reminder that feelings are transient. They come and go, but your capacity to endure remains. Is today the worst day you’ve had? If so, recall how you navigated past hardships. The same strength that saw you through those moments is still within you.

Let’s take a moment to think about the moments of quiet despair we all experience. The late-night worries, the fears of failure, the financial pressures, the anxiety before a big competition. These feelings are universal. We all have them. We are all human, But sitting with a feeling, even the worst feeling you’ve ever had, doesn’t inherently cause harm. It's the reaction to that feeling that can spiral into issues. Feelings don’t kill—behaviours do. This simple truth is profound in its implications. How many times have we acted impulsively, driven by a surge of emotion, only to regret it later?

"Feelings never kill anyone, behaviours do!"

Understanding this is the first step towards change. It's about recognizing that while we may not be able to control the feelings that come our way, we can absolutely control how we respond to them. This control is what defines our resilience. We are stronger than we think, and we need to harness that strength to manage our mental health effectively.

In the equestrian world, we often talk about the bond between horse and rider. This bond is built on trust, patience, and understanding so you all tell me. It’s a relationship that thrives on communication and mutual respect.

So I ask you this.... Why should our relationship with our mental health be any different? We need to build a similar bond with ourselves—one that is grounded in trust, patience, and understanding. One based on information and knowledge... we have to love ourselves enough to invest into both our body and our mind.

I am in the same boat, I spend lot of time working on my mind... a lot and think in ways, I can handle anything that comes my way... but have I invested in gym time, daily fitness habits, healthier eating? NO... will I? Yes and very soon... otherwise I am full of shit writing this piece.

The Importance of Addressing Mental Health

Statistics show the size of the problem. According to recent studies, mental health issues affect a significant portion of the equestrian community. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are more common than we might think. These are not just numbers; they represent our friends, family, colleagues, and sometimes, even ourselves.

"Mental health issues affect a significant portion of the equestrian community. We are not alone in this battle."

Consider the analogy of a storm. Just as storms are inevitable in nature, so too are the storms within our minds. But storms pass. They don’t last forever. And while we can’t prevent them from coming, we can prepare for them. We can learn to weather the storm, to find shelter and wait it out. This is where education and awareness come in. They are our tools for building that shelter, for preparing ourselves to face the mental storms that come our way.

"You’ve conquered every hard day so far. Survival isn’t luck – it’s resilience."

This understanding is at the heart of the Equestrian Mental Health Summit. We aim to provide not just a space for dialogue but tangible tools and knowledge to manage mental health effectively. Imagine a world where every equestrian organisation commits to training mental health first aiders, ensuring support is available at competitions. Imagine there was a 24/7 mental health helpline and chat line for all equestrians, offering immediate, accessible assistance.

Survival isn’t luck—it’s resilience. And resilience is built on the foundation of knowledge and education. When the mind lies, telling you that you can’t cope or that you’re alone, knowledge is your best weapon. Education empowers us to see the truth beyond our darkest thoughts.

"The darkest thoughts lie – education can help you see the truth."

Join us, buy your tickets here.

Until Next Time,

Shane