Harley-Davidson Rider Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles
Daniel Philpot, a 40-year-old senior draftsman from Wangi Wangi in the Hunter region, has bravely shared his ongoing battle with depression that began in his early teenage years. Mr Philpot, who works in the mining industry, emphasises that mental health is an ongoing struggle with both good days and challenging ones.
Breaking the Stigma Through Motorcycle Camaraderie
Mr Philpot is using his passion for motorcycle riding to help break down the stigma surrounding men's mental health. As a self-described 120-kilogram bearded Harley rider, he wants to show that it's acceptable for anyone to express vulnerability.
"If a 120-kilogram bearded Harley rider like me can cry and talk about his mental health, so can everyone," Mr Philpot stated.
He shared his story to promote registrations for the upcoming Black Dog Ride in March, a national motorcycle event that shines a spotlight on depression and suicide prevention.
The Black Dog Ride's Local Impact
The Black Dog Ride will be held in more than 50 locations across Australia on Sunday, March 15. In the Hunter region, the ride will travel from the University of Newcastle to Paterson and Williamtown.
Newcastle Black Dog Ride co-ordinator Jeremy Brett explained that the event focuses on connection and compassion, demonstrating that nobody needs to face their struggles alone.
"The ride reminds us that meaningful change starts at a local level," Mr Brett said.
Funds raised through the ride are donated to mental health services in regional and rural areas where free support is often limited or unavailable.
Personal Journey of Recovery and Support
For Mr Philpot, the camaraderie of the Black Dog Ride has been instrumental in his mental health journey. The event helped him cope with the end of a long-term relationship and provided valuable social connections.
"Getting to know people and making friends through the ride has helped," he explained.
In a powerful moment last year, Mr Philpot gave a motivational talk to over 300 riders, openly discussing his depression and a suicide attempt that occurred just one week prior.
"I got up and told over 300 bikers, men and women, that I suffer from depression and had attempted suicide a week before," he revealed. "But I reached out for help. I was OK and alive."
Practical Strategies for Mental Wellbeing
Mr Philpot has developed several strategies to manage his mental health, including:
- Regular check-ins with his GP
- Taking antidepressants which he says "helps a lot and keeps a lot of the big thoughts away"
- Talking openly with friends and workmates
- Engaging in motorcycle riding for mental clarity
"As soon as you get it off your chest, you do feel a little bit better," he noted about sharing his feelings with others.
The Therapeutic Power of Riding
Having ridden motorcycles since childhood, Mr Philpot finds particular solace in riding his Harley-Davidson.
"It clears my head and takes the worries of the world away," he described. "They say the wind is in your hair, but mine is more in the beard. It's freeing."
After overcoming the despair of his relationship breakup, Mr Philpot has found new happiness and will be getting married in September this year. He credits having a partner who understands his mental health journey as a significant positive in his life.
Mr Philpot's story serves as a powerful reminder that seeking help and building supportive communities can make a substantial difference in mental health outcomes.
