Broadcaster and adventurer Ben Fogle has expressed serious concerns about mental health in the UK as he considers leaving the country in pursuit of an off-grid lifestyle. The 52-year-old gained popularity through the BBC reality programme Castaway 2000, where he and others lived in isolation on the island of Taransay. Now, Fogle warns that “we’re all in danger of being overwhelmed.”
Reflecting on his experiences, Fogle revealed that he felt “overwhelmed” by the “noise and chaos” of social media, which he believes contributes to a wider mental health crisis. He noted that he experienced anxiety and nervousness for the first time in his life, attributing part of this to the relentless negativity found online. In an interview with Radio Times, he stated, “Social media has become an avalanche of negativity, fuels hate, encourages constant comparison and adds to the cacophony.”
Fogle’s concerns come after he experienced what he described as a “small breakdown” in 2023. He acknowledges the stigma surrounding mental health issues, asserting that many people struggle in silence. Despite these challenges, he remains dedicated to raising awareness through his work on the documentary series New Lives in the Wild, which explores the benefits of off-grid living for those facing personal hardships.
Dreaming of an Off-Grid Cabin
In light of his experiences, Fogle has considered abandoning his life in the UK for a simpler existence. He envisions finding a small cabin in Norway or Sweden, where he can immerse himself in nature. “One day I’d like to find a little off-grid cabin of my own, perhaps somewhere in Norway or Sweden – an island in the Arctic Circle sounds nice,” he said. He imagines spending his days chopping wood, swimming, and paddling his Canadian canoe while mastering new skills like painting and boat-building.
Fogle’s desire for this lifestyle is also tied to the memory of his beloved black Labrador, Inca, who accompanied him during his time on Castaway 2000. Tragically, he had to make the difficult decision to have her euthanised in 2012. He described Inca as his “reason to go off and explore the island,” revealing that she played a significant role in shaping his public persona. He wrote in The Telegraph, “Without Inca, I’m not sure how well I would have fared for the whole year.”
A Call for Change
Fogle’s reflections come at a time when many individuals report feeling overwhelmed by modern life, particularly due to the influence of social media. He believes that acknowledging and addressing the mental health epidemic is crucial for improving individual well-being.
Despite his concerns, Fogle remains committed to sharing his journey with audiences. His show, New Lives in the Wild, returns to television screens tomorrow at 21:00 on Channel 5. Through this programme, he hopes to inspire others to consider the positive aspects of living off the grid, particularly for those facing significant life challenges.
Fogle’s candidness about his struggles and aspirations underscores the importance of mental health awareness and the need for open conversations about well-being in today’s fast-paced world.
