Today, we’re diving into a conversation that blends personal resilience, mental health advocacy, and the power of connection. Meet Brooke McIntosh, an elite athlete and mental health advocate who is changing the conversation around mental health in the mining industry. She took on an epic 1,600-kilometer run across Western Australia—not for a medal, but for a cause that’s close to her heart. This episode is all about facing challenges, pushing through physical and mental barriers, and raising awareness for the importance of mental health, especially in tough industries like mining.

In this chat, we’ll hear from Brooke about her incredible journey and the deeper lessons she learned along the way. Get cozy, grab your beverage of choice, and let’s dive into this inspiring conversation about mental health, the power of community, and how we can all make a difference—one step at a time.

A Conversation About Mental Health in Mining

Brooke’s mission? To change the culture around mental health in the mining industry, a space that, for too long, has remained silent on such critical issues. Mental health is often a taboo topic, and it’s something that people working in this high-stress, physically demanding field struggle with every day. Through her 1,600-kilometer run, Brooke set out to break the silence and make mental health a part of the conversation.

The Journey

Brooke’s journey wasn’t just about putting one foot in front of the other. It was about facing fears, building resilience, and teaching us all that our struggles don’t define us—they can fuel us to make a difference. Running in 37 to 42-degree heat, with blistered feet and battling food poisoning, she kept pushing, driven by her desire to raise awareness for mental health in the mining sector. And let me tell you, hearing her share how she handled her fears and physical challenges is nothing short of inspiring.

Brooke’s Lessons on Overcoming Challenges

As we discussed, FIFO (Fly-in Fly-out) workers often have long shifts, live in isolated environments, and have limited social connections. Brooke shared that it’s easy to fall into the trap of “toughen up” and ignore the mental strain we’re under. But as Brooke puts it, “Without your mental health, you’re no good to anyone.” It’s time to prioritize mental wellness as much as our physical health.

Here are the key takeaways from our chat with Brooke:

1. Start Small, Build Momentum: Sometimes, the first step is the hardest, but once you start—whether it’s a run or seeking help—you can keep going. Brooke’s run wasn’t just about endurance, it was a testament to the power of one more step.
2. Create Safe Spaces: Mental health conversations can’t be limited to formal meetings or one-time events. It needs to be a consistent practice. Brooke suggested injecting something simple, like a daily gratitude check, into work routines as a way to check in with ourselves and each other.
3. Face Your Fears: Brooke’s biggest challenge on the road wasn’t just the heat or the distance—it was the trauma of past accidents involving trucks. Yet, she pushed through, learning to manage her fear with every step.
4. Support Each Other: Brooke’s run taught her that small acts of kindness can make a huge difference. A wave from a truck driver, a supportive community cheering you on—these things remind us that we’re not alone, even when it feels like we are.
5. Embrace Your Journey: When you’re living your purpose, it doesn’t feel like work. Brooke was at her happiest, even in the hardest moments, because she knew her mission was bigger than the pain. She had a dream, and she was willing to do whatever it took to make it come true.

So, What’s Next?

Brooke’s incredible run raised $73,000 for two charities—20Talk and Blue Tree Project. These organizations are doing groundbreaking work to change the mental health narrative and provide resources for youth and those in the mining community. Through these efforts, Brooke hopes to bring mental health into the light and shift the stigma that’s been too deeply ingrained for too long.

Her message to everyone in the mining industry? “You are worthy of support, and you are worthy of feeling seen.”

Brooke’s Final Words

As Brooke shared her reflections on the run, she said something that really hit home for me: “If you’re chasing your own dream, you’ll do whatever it takes.” It’s about going after your purpose, no matter the obstacles. And for Brooke, her purpose is to help others feel seen, supported, and empowered to take control of their mental health.

Brooke’s journey didn’t just raise funds—it raised awareness, shifted perspectives, and created a space for meaningful conversations. And that’s something we can all take with us.

What Can You Do Today?

Take a moment to reflect: What’s one small step you can take today that will propel you toward your bigger goals? Whether it’s reaching out for support, speaking up about how you’re feeling, or simply showing a little kindness to someone who needs it—your actions matter. Just like Brooke’s run, your actions can ignite change.

Let’s continue the conversation—how can we make mental health a priority in your industry? What’s one thing you can do today to support yourself and those around you? Let’s keep this conversation going in the comments or on social media.

Feel free to share your thoughts and continue this important conversation. And if you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to check out more empowering insights on It’s All Wellness.

Connect with Brooke

Website: https://www.brookeemmarose.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/brookemcintosh__/