Shorncliffe man prepares for ride to raise awareness of mental health

Andrew Pearson of north Brisbane is preparing to ride 16,000km around Australia next month. In his own words, he explains why.

Andrew Pearson is preparing to ride his motorcycle around Australia. Picture: AAP/Renae Droop

By ANDREW PEARSON, of Shorncliffe

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Black Dog Ride, an annual two-wheeled regional awareness-raising adventure starting conversations around mental health, depression and suicide prevention throughout dozens of towns and communities.

On July 26, up to 65 participants will depart Busselton, WA to circumnavigate Australia, travelling around 16,000km over 35 days.

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They will be raising awareness and money to fund grants across the nation for projects which lead to positive mental health outcomes in our communities.

Andrew Pearson with his swag and charity mascot ‘Winston’. Picture: AAP/Renae Droop

Mental health statistics are on the rise. In Australia alone, more than 65,000 people attempt suicide each year. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between 15 and 44 years.

To date, I have lost six friends to the ‘black dog’, the very first at the young age of 16. I still remember that day like it was yesterday — far too young for a mate to die and far too young for his mates to understand.

I never understood why he did it. It wasn’t until I attended a funeral many years later, that it was suggested depression was a disease, not a selfish act of an individual or a perceived lack of support from family, friends or another external cause.

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That thought sat with me, but I still did not fully understand it. I don’t know if I ever fully will.

I am one of the few lucky ones. To this date I have had no struggles with my own mental health, but that does not make me immune, no-one is.

Within my own family, I did not even recognise depression. It wasn’t until I shared conversations with my aunt after my mother passed away, that I realised she suffered badly from depression.

I was so used to her behaviours and lacked the awareness and knowledge of mental health that I did not realise her cries for help.

Andrew Pearson of Shorncliffe prepares his bike for his ride around Australia. Picture: AAP/Renae Droop

I have been riding for over 15 years now, and even though I have done a lot of long-distance riding, usually it’s only a few days at a time. The challenge of riding non-stop for 35 days, sleeping in a swag each night, will certainly be a challenge, but the challenge won’t even come close to daily struggles that people with depression suffer.

While a big part of the ride is about raising awareness, donations also play a big part in helping to fund organisations that help deal with mental health care and awareness.

I have to thank The Full Moon Hotel and Marine and RV Systems Australia for their support and financial contributions, as well as those from individuals, family and friends. A special thanks also to my partner Katrina, who is always understanding and supportive of my endeavours.

If people would like to support me, visit http://blackdog.chat. All donations to the Black Dog Ride are distributed to charities that help assist those who suffer from depression and mental health conditions. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.