Influencer Sam Guggenheimer, who boasts hundreds of thousands of online followers, is urging people to protect their well-being by not comparing their lives to the “highlight reels” we see on social media.
The 23-year-old has opened up about the mental health struggles she has experienced since her early teens as part of New Corp Australia’s Can We Talk? campaign, in partnership with Medibank.
“From depression to anxiety and overcoming an aggressive eating disorder, mental health challenges have been a constant part of my journey,” Guggenheimer said.
“They’ve shaped me into the person I am today.
“Although some of the darkest days felt never-ending, there was always a part of me that knew there was light at the end of the tunnel.”
In a job with no set hours, the popular podcaster who has more than 349,000 followers on TikTok said her mental lows could manifest as fatigue, where even simple tasks felt draining and overwhelming.
“During these times, I struggle to focus, feel unmotivated, and notice a real dip in my creativity,” she said.
Guggenheimer, who is based in Melbourne, said she could lose interest in usually joyful activities and sometimes felt “stuck, just going through the motions without real purpose.”
But she has been candid with her followers about her struggles — something she has found “incredibly powerful.”
“It not only helps me feel less alone but also provides other girls with the reassurance that life isn’t perfect and polished all the time — and that’s okay,” she said.
Guggenheimer said she had worked “really hard” to improve her mental health, and found that have a strong routine was “crucial” for maintaining a stable mindset.
“I’ve fallen in love with the gym and working out, and being physically active every day has truly transformed my self-esteem and my belief in my ability to overcome challenges,” she explained.
Guggenheimer said with so much access to people’s “curated lives online”, it was easy to fall into the trap of comparison.
“This often leads to feelings of isolation and makes it harder to form real, meaningful connections, which can take a toll on self-esteem,” she said.
Guggenheimer said she resonated deeply with the “Can We Talk?” message because it encouraged tough, honest conversations.
“Being vulnerable, whether online or in real life, can feel daunting, but it also creates real connection and understanding,” she said.
“It reminds everyone that no one’s life is perfect — and having these conversations can truly save lives.”
Her advice to others struggling was “be kind to yourself.”
“We are often our own worst critics and can be incredibly harsh on ourselves — in ways we would never treat another person,” she said.
“Don’t beat yourself up over mistakes or imperfections; show yourself the same care and compassion you would offer someone you love.”
She encouraged people to build positive and sustainable habits for their well-being.
“Whether it’s signing up for a new gym program, going for a walk to your local cafe every morning, or setting aside time for activities you love — physical movement … releases endorphins and boosts your mood naturally,” she said.
“Lastly, lean on the people around you.”
“Build and nurture your real-life relationships.”
“Remember: what you see online is often just a highlight reel.”
For confidential and free support for eating disorders call the Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 ED HOPE or visit http://www.butterfly.org.au to chat online or email.
Read the full article here
