Nick Bracks on Anxiety, Mental Health, Alcohol, Resilience and the Daily Habits That Can Change Your Life

In this episode of Sweaty AF, I sit down with Nick Bracks, mental health advocate, speaker, coach, actor, author and host of Move Your Mind with Nick Bracks.Nick opens up about his deeply personal journey with anxiety, compulsive behaviour, depression and alcohol misuse. He shares what it was like growing up in the public eye as the son of the Premier of Victoria and how pressure, perfectionism and the pursuit of identity shaped his early years.Lucy and Nick explore why mental health conversations have improved dramatically over the last decade, while also discussing why so many people are still struggling beneath the surface. They talk about the pressures of modern life, social media comparison, chronic stress, poor sleep and the growing impact of overwhelm in today’s world.Nick explains why exercise became the foundation of his recovery and how small, consistent habits can create real long term change. He also shares the tools that helped him rebuild confidence and manage anxiety, including meditation, journaling, movement, breath work and connection with trusted people.The conversation also dives into alcohol and mental health, the rise of anxiety in younger generations, emotional resilience, mindset, and why prevention matters just as much as treatment.This episode covers:Exercise and movement for mental healthAnxiety, overthinking and chronic stressMale mental health and emotional shameSocial media and comparison cultureAlcohol, binge drinking and “hangxiety”Meditation, journaling and daily routinesPublic speaking anxiety and building confidenceCreating healthier habits that actually stickWhy connection and community matterHow to recognise when someone may be strugglingThe importance of preventative mental health careInstagram: @nickbracksWebsite: www.nickbracks.comFor more conversations like this, follow Sweaty AF Podcast on all podcast platforms or over on Instagram at @sweatyafpodcast.Connect with Nick Bracks