How Full-Time House Sitting Improves My Mental Health: A Personal Journey

Living with depression and PTSD is a daily battle, one that requires constant vigilance, self-awareness, and the right coping mechanisms. For me, one of the most effective strategies has been full-time house sitting while travelling with the option to travel the world. This lifestyle, which might seem daunting or unorthodox to some, has been a lifeline, providing both stability and the change of scenery I need to manage my mental health.

The Healing Power of New Environments

One of the most profound benefits of house sitting full-time is the opportunity to continually immerse myself in new environments. Every new location brings a fresh perspective, a chance to reset, and a break from the stagnation that can exacerbate depression and PTSD.

• Breaking the Routine Trap: Routine can be beneficial, but for those of us struggling with mental health, it can also become a trap. Monotony often leads to negative thought patterns and increased anxiety. Traveling to new places disrupts this cycle, offering new sights, sounds, and experiences that can uplift the spirit and refocus the mind.

• Nature's Therapeutic Effect: Many house sitting opportunities are in serene, natural settings—be it a countryside cottage, a beachfront villa, or a mountain cabin. Nature has a well-documented therapeutic effect on mental health. Being surrounded by greenery, the sound of waves, or the crisp mountain air can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, providing a calming effect that is often hard to find in urban environments.

The Joy of Purpose and Responsibility

House sitting is not just about having a place to stay; it involves taking care of someone’s home and often their pets. This responsibility gives a sense of purpose, which is crucial when dealing with mental health issues.

• Caring for Pets: Many house sits involve looking after pets. The unconditional love and companionship of animals can be incredibly comforting. Pets provide a non-judgmental presence, reduce feelings of loneliness, and their need for care can create a structured routine that helps keep depressive symptoms at bay.

• Sense of Achievement: Successfully managing a house sit, especially in a new and unfamiliar location, fosters a sense of achievement and self-worth. This can combat the feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness that often accompany depression and PTSD.

Building a Community on the Go

While house sitting and traveling might seem isolating, it actually offers ample opportunities to connect with others, which is essential for mental well-being.

• Local Connections: Each new location brings the chance to meet locals and build connections, even if they are temporary. These interactions can provide a sense of belonging and community, which is vital for someone managing mental health issues.

• Global Network: The house sitting community itself is a supportive and understanding network. Fellow house sitters and hosts often share similar values and experiences, creating a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.

A Flexible and Adaptable Lifestyle

Flexibility is a key component of managing mental health, and house sitting offers this in abundance. The ability to choose where to go next, how long to stay, and the type of environment that will be most beneficial at any given time is invaluable.

• Control Over Environment: Unlike a traditional living situation, house sitting allows me to have greater control over my environment. If a particular place starts to feel overwhelming, I have the option to move on to a different setting that might be more conducive to my mental well-being.

• Adapting to Needs: Different stages of managing depression and PTSD may require different approaches. Sometimes a bustling city with lots of activities can be a great distraction and source of energy, while other times, a quiet retreat is necessary. House sitting offers the flexibility to adapt to these changing needs.

House sitting full-time to me is more than just a way to travel the world; it is a crucial part of my mental health strategy. The constant change of scenery, the responsibilities and purpose it provides, and the ability to build a supportive community all contribute to a more manageable and fulfilling life despite the challenges of depression and PTSD. This lifestyle may not be conventional, but it has offered me stability and hope in ways I never thought possible. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, consider how a change of environment and the unique opportunities of house sitting might offer new paths to healing and happiness.