Drew Petersen: Skiing Through Sobriety and Mental Health Challenges
I think that once you have the clarity on that, it makes it a lot easier to have that clarity on yourself and have clarity and live in alignment with your values.
Imagine the adrenaline rush of skiing down a mountain, only to be followed by the crash of a season-ending injury. For Drew Petersen, a professional skier and mountain athlete, this was just the beginning of his journey towards sobriety and mental health awareness. In this episode of 'Nature Untold', host John Holdmeier sits down with Drew to uncover how he navigated these turbulent waters.
Drew opens up about the traumatic accident that became a turning point in his life, leading him to confront not just physical pain but also deeper mental health issues. He talks candidly about how societal expectations of masculinity initially kept him from sharing his struggles and how embracing vulnerability became a game-changer. The conversation dives into Drew's first attempts at sobriety, spurred by the need to recover from his injuries.
He shares how quitting drinking played a crucial role in both his physical and mental recovery. Drew also touches on the challenges of socializing in an industry where peer pressure is intense and how he found clarity and strength in his decision to stay sober. Beyond skiing, Drew is passionate about running and shares how combining these two activities has been therapeutic for him.
He discusses the importance of daily routines like making his bed, journaling, and using humor to cope with life's challenges. Drew's story is a testament to the power of aligning with personal values and finding fortitude in the face of adversity. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or someone seeking inspiration for your own recovery journey, this episode offers a raw and honest look at what it takes to overcome life's toughest obstacles.