Living with mental health challenges can make even the simplest daily tasks feel exhausting and overwhelming.
For Sarah (not her real name), some days just getting out of bed or going to an appointment can feel like an uphill battle.
That's why an exercise physiology and wellness program in the Pioneer Valley, west of Mackay, is making such a difference in people's lives.
The Add Nature Project, which incorporates hiking, stand-up paddling, Pilates, Tai Chi, and boxing, uses the power of movement and the great outdoors to support mental wellbeing.
Joining the wellness program was a turning point for 26-year-old Sarah, who says spending time outdoors has helped her stay connected to herself and others, even during her most challenging moments.
"I'm grateful for the ongoing support and for providing me with an opportunity to feel heard and understood," she said.
"The program (and Trissi) have been a consistent support system during my difficult moments over the past few months.
"It's given me hope and reminded me that I'm not alone in facing these challenges. That's made a significant difference in my overall wellbeing."
The Add Nature Project, run by Mackay Advocacy Inc, is funded by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) under the Targeted Regional Initiative for Suicide Prevention (TRISP) program. The initiative promotes accessible, community-based wellness activities to support those experiencing distress or at risk of suicide.
For Sarah and many others, every hike, paddle, stretch, and breath of fresh air is a step to feeling more empowered.
"I now have valuable tools and coping mechanisms to better understand and manage my mental health," she said.
"One of my biggest takeaways has been learning new ways to manage the overwhelm. I've also learned the benefits of getting outdoors and into nature to help me reset in times of stress.
"I now feel more empowered and less isolated as I continue on my journey towards better mental health."
Exercise physiologist and Add Nature Project operator Trissi Pearce, from Mackay Advocacy Inc, said the project highlighted the vital role of exercise in mental health, wellbeing, and chronic disease management.
And in just a few months, it's already made a significant impact, with people across the Pioneer Valley experiencing its benefits.
A 49-year-old woman is "over the moon" having overcome abdominal separation and a weak pelvic floor since giving birth nine years ago.
"Trissi showed me exercises and is a wealth of information. Her private studio is well equipped, and I followed all her recommendations. I just wish I could have worked with her earlier."
Meanwhile, a 49-year-old man with chronic back pain has also received relief after joining the program.
"Trissi has been so helpful with the carefully thought-out exercise program specifically catering for injuries, disabilities, and limited mobility," he said.
"As we live in a regional area, access to this service has saved me time and money, not to mention the many health benefits."
Ms Pearce said using exercise as a first-line approach to preventative health and connecting community members through activity and companionship had already delivered significant results.
"It's heartwarming to see participants getting active in a supported and casual way, free from the pressure to perform, keep up, or fit in," Ms Pearce said.
Beyond encouraging locals of all ages and abilities to embrace the great outdoors, the program also offers an online platform for at-home exercises and access to allied health professionals when extra support is needed.
"In just a few short months, people are rediscovering activities they haven't done in years and are motivated to do more," she said.
"For many, travelling, time, and money can put these services out of reach, so they give up. But I will continue advocating for vulnerable Australians living in our rural towns to ensure people get the support they need without the barriers."
