Having new experiences is beneficial for improving brain function and boosting your mental health. Travel has been linked to stress reduction and can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
It has been very hard on my mental not being able to travel during COVID. I have always been the explorative type who loves to try new restaurants, go to live music events, and see my friends and family…these are all things that bring me joy. It had gotten to the point that when things restrictions began loosening, I didn’t even want to see my friends and family because I was so used to the isolation. Social interactions that seemed normal before became so awkward and forced, and I found myself avoiding them.
Over the past 2 years, I have been traveling solo and it has done wonders for my mental health. Reflecting back on my mental state before my trip and after my trip…the difference is immense. I was an anxious and depressed mess before my trip. Had it not been the past eight months I would have never gotten out of my unhealthy hole. I know the past two years have been hard on everyone, but I don’t think anyone thought it drag so long. The effects of isolation on people’s mental health definitely have been very damaging to people.