What motivated you to found ALIVE Cares?
I am the father of two young boys, one of whom is nearly a teenager. This has allowed me to witness some of the problems our children face today. Many of these issues are related to the recent pandemic and physical isolation from peers. In the Czech Republic, there is a support network and infrastructure built for young people, but I’m not sure how well known or easily accessible it is. In New Zealand, where I grew up, mental wellbeing and health are prioritized both academically and professionally — unfortunately, we have not yet reached this level of awareness and engagement here in the Czech Republic. Fortunately, thanks to the widespread use of ISIC cards in the Czech Republic, we have an excellent opportunity to communicate with students of all ages. I believe we can help raise awareness that it’s okay to seek help for mental difficulties, as well as provide information about the availability of such help.
How do you remember your time as a student?
Well, that was a long time ago — we’re talking about a time before mobile phones and the internet. Our access to information was quite different, as were the distractions. I think that in some ways it was easier to navigate the environment back then because we weren’t constantly “connected” or influenced by such a wide range of “influencers,” commercials, or “how to live” guides. Trends were followed, of course, but I believe our role models were closer. They were mostly people we knew or could at least identify with — they were almost within reach. Nowadays, I think it’s much harder to know who is real and what is genuine, and young people may lack sufficient discernment, which makes things even more complicated.
How do you take care of your mental health?
I’m definitely not an expert on how to deal with or avoid depression. The reality is that everyone has their own cross to bear at different times and must deal with the challenge as best they can. For me, the most important thing is to strive to maintain balance between family, work, and time for myself.
