Can we outrun depression by moving abroad?- with Maria Jenckel (Germany)
Manage episode 449115821 series 3448366
Hi everyone,
Please welcome with me Maria Jenckel from Germany who left her home to move all the way to Australia. Maria has a PhD in Science and due to her international reputation as a scientist she was able to land a great job in Down Under. She is proud to now be a citizen of Australia.
In this episode, I sit down with Maria, who moved to Australia in search of new beginnings and better mental health. We explore her journey with depression and ask the question: "Can you outrun depression by moving abroad?" Maria shares candidly about her early struggles, starting with school bullying and later experiencing burnout at work, which led her to resign. The toll on her mental health included physical symptoms, like stomach issues and intense anxiety.
Her dream of living in Australia came true with a job offer, and for the first few months, her anxiety seemed to vanish. However, as routines set in, so did her familiar struggles—amplified by the isolation of Covid lockdowns. Eventually diagnosed with anxiety disorder and depression, Maria started medication but found transformative relief by embracing running. Through consistent exercise, her mental health improved, and she was able to feel good even without medication, rediscovering joy in hiking, road trips, and exploring Australia.
Maria's answer to our big question? Moving abroad may offer a temporary escape, but the real work needs to be done within. You can't escape depression by changing location alone, but you can begin to outrun it—literally—by putting on those running shoes and taking charge of your health.
If you struggle with your mental health please ask for help! You are not alone!
Feel free to connect with me on Instagram:
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hannaworldwideandfriends@outlook.com
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https://www.buzzsprout.com/2110137
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Thank you so much for being here, I appreciate every single one of you!
Love,
Hanna
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