Mental wellbeing on project
It’s important to remember that mental health is something that we ALL have, and ALL need to care for. Each and every one of us will have a unique relationship with mental health challenges, ranging anywhere from simply having ‘down’ days to experiencing diagnosable ill mental health. It’s important to remember in a challenging environment like a Think Pacific project, anyone can be affected regardless of what your relationship with mental health and wellbeing has been in the past. Recognising that mental health is something that we must all maintain and care for, just as much as our physical health, is hugely important to get the most out of your Think Pacific project!
First arriving into Fiji, and at times during your period abroad, you might experience feeling anxious and that you’re being pushed out of your comfort zone. These feelings aren’t unusual in international travel or taking part in projects abroad – but setting this expectation early means that we can get a head start on maintaining mental wellbeing during your time in Fiji. Feelings of homesickness, apprehension, being thrown into the deep end and that you’re unprepared are completely normal – and while you acclimatise into your project make sure you reach out for any help that you need. Your leaders are there to help you get the very best out of your project and so maintaining your mental wellbeing and health is one of their utmost priorities.
PLEASE NOTE: Joining a Think Pacific team, you may meet individuals who have experienced or live with mental health disorders – you may even have one yourself! We pride ourselves at Think Pacific on understanding, uplifting and engaging people passionate about our aims, regardless of their medical history. As one of our participants, we expect you to be an extension of this ethos. If you don’t know about or understand someone else’s past experiences, that’s OK, but always remember to tackle these issues from a place of compassion and learning – everyone is different, and so is our mental health.
Supporting you
During your time in Fiji, you will be surrounded by people helping and encouraging you through the highs and lows – from your team-mates to your Project Leaders. Your leaders in particular are there to facilitate your project and experience, and are available 24/7 for any physical, mental and emotional support that you may need. When we say 24/7, we really mean it! Our leaders are chosen because we have every faith in their ability to support and guide you through your project, and they will be with your team every step of the way.
An open environment at Think Pacific
Our aim at Think Pacific is to make mental health and wellbeing something that we talk about just as much as any aspect of our physical health. However, we appreciate that everyone is different, and some people might not feel as comfortable talking about mental health and wellbeing as others. Because of this, we try to make having an open environment something that is part of the very essence of your Think Pacific journey. Our aim is for everyone’s mental health and wellbeing to be something that is constantly upheld, regardless of whether ill mental health is something you have experienced previously or not! Here is the way that we have structured this into your project’s journey…
Pre-Project
Aim: openness and honesty in disclosing any past or current personal (mental) health struggles. Think Pacific projects are challenging and not suited to everyone. That is why we talk just as much about the challenges of your project as we do the good stuff! We aim to open up the conversation about mental health and wellbeing from the start of the process, if anything is highlighted on your application form.
- Health Forms & Doctors notes: if any experience of ill mental health is raised on either someone’s application or booking form, you will be asked to fill in a health form so that we have the information we need to know how to best support you. You may also be asked to get a note from your Doctor if you have been recently treated for any condition or on any medication.
- Project Coordinators: your Project Coordinator (as well as anyone else at TP UK!) will be your point of contact up until you head out to Fiji. They will discuss any health difficulties that you may have and discuss the ways in which this will be assisted during your time in Fiji.