If you are affected by depression or anxiety and planning to raft with us, this blog may be helpful to you. We understand that every individual’s experience is distinctly personal, and the ways for managing are just as varied. We don’t know you, but we do know the river. Over the years we’ve compiled a few tips based on previous guests’ feedback that we hope might help you prepare for and enjoy your trip. Depending on your depression or anxiety, some of these tips may not apply to you. Nonetheless, we’re glad to offer the following information for your consideration:
Plan for being unplugged: It’s important to consider that you won’t have cell service or internet access during the trip. Plan appropriately to support yourself while you’re away from regular “in-town” resources. Some guests bring a book or download music or podcasts. Others may try to carve out alone time with music or a journal. We provide a charging station to recharge devices – bring your regular charging plug (wall plug or USB).
Stay consistent: It’s best to keep your medication dosages consistent before and during your trip. Even if you’ve been feeling great, it’s not recommended to adjust doses without the supervision of your doctor.
Carry-on meds: Always pack medications in your carry-on, not checked baggage when you are traveling to the start of your river trip.
Store meds in two places: Over the years, we’ve seen ravens fly away with medications or wind blow them into the river. These scenarios are not as far-fetched as they may sound and could really leave you “up a creek without a paddle.” Storing your medications in two places can easily prevent the sticky situation. On the first day of the trip, you can give half of your medication to your guide for safekeeping if you feel comfortable doing so.
Read to prepare: Have you read your Trip Info Packet? This packet is carefully curated each season and contains helpful information specific to your trip! A link to your Trip Info Packet can be found in most emails you will receive from us after booking your trip. Contact us if you have questions or need the link resent.
We encourage you to take an especially active role in ensuring your personal health because of the remote nature of the canyon. As you travel through the Grand Canyon, it is likely you will be hours away from professional medical care. Some guests find it beneficial to talk with their doctor to specifically prepare for this trip.
We would be happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. No question is too big or small!