In a candid revelation, former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has disclosed his struggles with “debilitating” anxiety during his tenure in office. In an interview published by The Australian newspaper, Morrison spoke openly about the challenges he faced while governing, citing the immense stress of managing crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires.
The 55-year-old evangelical Christian, who led the conservative coalition until losing power in May 2022, described his anxiety as “agonizing” and acknowledged its profound impact on his well-being.
He attributed the buildup of stress to the demanding nature of his role, which involved long hours and contentious diplomatic relations, particularly with China.
Ex-PM Scott Morrison Shares Struggles with Anxiety
Morrison revealed that the severity of his anxiety led him to seek medical help, resulting in a prescription for medication to alleviate his symptoms. Excerpts from his forthcoming book, “Plans for Your Good: A Prime Minister’s Testimony of God’s Faithfulness,” shed light on his decision to seek treatment, with Morrison expressing gratitude for the support he received from his doctor.
Reflecting on his experience, Morrison emphasized the debilitating effects of anxiety, recounting moments when he “couldn’t get out of bed” and highlighting its toll on his mental and physical well-being. He underscored the importance of seeking help and addressing mental health challenges, noting that without intervention, his condition could have escalated to serious depression.
Throughout his tenure, Morrison faced criticism for various policy decisions, including his handling of diplomatic relations and environmental issues. His announcement in January to retire from politics marked the end of a controversial career, characterized by both achievements and controversies.
Notably, Morrison’s tenure was marked by strained relations with France following a secretive agreement to acquire US and British nuclear submarine technology, which resulted in the abrupt termination of a longstanding agreement with Paris. Additionally, revelations emerged regarding Morrison’s clandestine appointment to ministerial roles during the Covid-19 crisis, without the knowledge of his cabinet or the public.
As Morrison transitions from politics, his candid disclosure about his battle with anxiety sheds light on the personal toll of public office. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and underscores the need for support systems to address the psychological challenges faced by individuals in positions of leadership.
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