OutdoorEd.com

Videos

Expand your knowledge

Share your favorites

Learn how to Contribute
Play Video

Ups and Downs: Drew Petersen on navigating the mountains and valleys of mental health through skiing

Video Release Date: February 1, 2022
Video Source: YouTube

Behind closed doors, professional skier Drew Petersen has been living a much different reality than ski films, magazine covers, and Instagram likes have shown. Following a near-death accident in the mountains, Petersen went into a dark tailspin of mental health struggles. In the following years, he has privately navigated an arduous journey of PTSD, bipolar disorder, brain injury rehabilitation, and suicidal thoughts. Told through the lens of ski touring, “Ups and Downs” is an introspective look at the mountains and valleys along his path, and how his mental health journey is ultimately lifelong—both from well before Petersen’s accident and for the rest of his life moving forward. His story is truly one of finding the light, healing both in the mountains and in therapy, and how giving voice to his struggles ultimately saved him. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health support, you can find resources at: https://www.drew-petersen.com/upsanddowns

The Backpacker's Field Manual book cover

The best seller used by outdoor programs across the country as a resource and textbook. 

Available in paperback, E-book, and now as an Audiobook at Amazon.com