To change perceptions on depresion and mental health.

Hi my name is Neil and at the age of 61 I was diagnosed with depression.

It was a surprise to me and hit me like a bolt from the blue and for no reason, or should I say no singular reason.

After diagnosis I like many tried to work out why and how to cope with what was going on in my head. I hit the internet and went to all the well known websites and help pages but nothing seemed to fit. I worked with my doctor and psychologist and slowly things changed for the better.

One thing that really helped was talking to others who were also suffering, comparing notes so to speak. They understood.

After spending most of my life in media as a radio broadcaster I wondered why these lived experiences weren't there to find when I was searching so I started a FB page called Neil Marks, Chasing the Dog, telling my story and hopefully connecting with others who might find it helpful to to read about a fellow sufferer. In a short period of time I was getting a good response.

With the encouragement of my psychologist the Chasing the Dog 2024 trip was planned.

A solo motorcycle trip around Australia over 6 weeks documenting not only the trip and the experience but the mental experience of taking on such a trip solo and spending so much time in a very dangerous place, alone in my head.

This along with talking to people and the media through my many contacts around the country and trying to change the perception that is out there on depression and mental health "

one conversation at a time"

I have saved enough to cover the trip very basically with living out of a swag and free camping around the country with the occasional stay indoors at friends places but I need a buffer if something goes wrong.

The money raised hopefully wont be needed and only used in an emergency, and what is left will be donated to local mental health charities.

I believe this is something that can make some real change to many from sufferers to those around them who want to know more.

It will also prove that no matter the problem or your age you can still achieve things and take on challenges outside the box.