Freya Terry, a 21-year-old from Pembrokeshire, is embarking on a solo sailing journey around Great Britain and Ireland, covering 2,300 nautical miles. If she completes the challenge, she will set a record as the youngest and first female to sail solo around the UK and Ireland. However, for Freya, this journey represents much more than a record-breaking feat; it symbolizes her decade-long struggle with mental health.
Freya’s journey with mental health began at the age of 11, around the time she started sailing. She experienced challenges transitioning to secondary school and forming friendships, leading to feelings of isolation and withdrawal. Despite seeking therapy, Freya found it difficult to open up and trust others, often running away and engaging in harmful behavior in secret.
As an adult, Freya found support from the Amethyst Project in Cardigan, Ceredigion, which helped her realize that she was not alone in her struggles. This newfound confidence surprised her family, including her mother, Julie Campbell, who initially had reservations about Freya’s sailing journey but now admires her courage and determination.
While Freya is excited about the sailing aspect of her journey, she admits that sharing her mental health journey is what scares her the most. Nevertheless, she is determined to speak openly about her experiences, recognizing the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
Freya’s journey highlights the transformative power of sailing and the importance of seeking support for mental health challenges. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to seek help and pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
