Sydney Sixers captain (or “the man on the Weet-bix box” as my kids like to call him) Moises Henriques is injecting a little realness into our Insta feeds – and we love him for it.
The cricket star who’s been pretty open about his mental health struggles in the past, has shared a refreshingly honest message about what life has been like since becoming a new dad.
“I was going through my Instagram and noticed that it’s a highlight reel of smiles, laughs, good times and happy families,” he writes.”Felt compelled to share that whilst things may appear all smiles and good times, it definitely is not like that all the time.”
“I do acknowledge that I’m very fortunate – absolutely no doubt. However in the last 5 weeks, I’ve felt like shedding as many tears as our baby Archie,” he continues.
“Feeling overwhelmed, anxious and worried.”
Moises continues to explain that his post is a “reminder of the misleading representation social media can portray of our not so perfect lives” and that “mental health is a work in progress.”
And he’s right.
While the research is mixed about whether there is a direct link between social media use and feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety, what we do know is that what we see and share on social media is, mostly, the highlight reel.
What we do know is that even though we know we shouldn’t, so many of us compare our every day selves and our every day lives to that highlight reel.
What we do know is that mental health issues are on the rise.
What we do know is that 1 in 7 new mums and 1 in 10 new dads struggle with depression after the birth of their baby.
And when the people we follow and admire – like Moises Henriques – can be honest enough to say, ‘hey, this isn’t real life’ or ‘hey, I’m struggling’ or ‘hey, I’m feeling overwhelmed, anxious and worried’?
We realise that in this world of Insta-perfection, we’re not the only ones who feel this way.
You can read Moises’ full post below:
If you or anyone you know may be struggling, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 in Australia, or your local organisation. You’re not alone.
Feature photo via @mozzie21/Instagram