conquering corner peak for mental health

On average 53 people die from suicide every year in the construction industry and Glen Thurston wants to inspire change.

Nature is well known for having a positive effect on mental health. But Wānaka construction worker Glen Thurston is taking the remedy to new heights. Well before dawn, Thurston takes on Corner Peak near Lake Hāwea. Poor mental health was something that happened to him so it is not the only mountain he has had to climb in his life. "Six years ago, I really hit rock bottom and it was a real turning point in my life." While working in construction, the 44-year-old battled depression that had built up over decades.

"I ended up making those changes and life is great! I've come out the other side." One major tool in the toolbox - nature. "When I get in the mountains, it's like me meditating," he told 1News. "I get in the now and answer any problems or any thoughts that go through my head and just feel really good when I get home, I'm reset."

Now, he's an advocate for others. Taking locals up with him on the climb and a chance for them to get whatever issue they have off their chest. Mates in Construction also champion mental health in the construction sector and were blown away by Glen's efforts. "When I heard what he was climbing and the number of times I thought that absolutely fantastic," spokesperson James Sendall said. On Sunday it was Glen's last climb - 53 days straight. That is the same number of people, on average, who take their own life every year in the construction sector. "That's too many," said Thurston. Thirty-five locals were involved in his final trek - the largest group to come up since his near two-month journey began.

Read the full article at https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/01/23/wanaka-construction-worker-conquering-peaks-for-mental-health/