"I lost my purpose in life ... I became anti-social, uncontactable, reclusive and eventually suicidal. When the thought of my life ending was no longer terrifying but relieving I understood how it felt to lose the will to live."
He tried many of the treatments - anti-depressants, counselling, group therapy - but nothing seemed to work.
Through his passion for skateboarding and board riding he found his purpose again, which helped to treat his illness.
The former soldier started at the base of Stewart Island on February 20 and arrived in Hawke's Bay last Wednesday. He aims to get 50km under his belt each day, but less than favourable weather and a hilly terrain on some days has made 20km achievable.
Throughout his journey, the skateboard enthusiast has been speaking at community groups and schools, sharing his story.
Benefield is just over halfway but does not know when he will finish. "There's no time limit and no real route, I'm just going where I can make the most impact.
"I thought I was going to be finished by now but with the more opportunities that come in, there's still a while to go but I am just taking everything as it comes."
Benefield has found dealing with his own "inner-critic" and finding the motivation each day to keep going the hardest part of the journey.
Connecting with new communities as he goes, meeting new people and seeing all of New Zealand's beautiful countryside has been his highlight.
"Being able to take in all of your surrounding is really an amazing thing. It is really healing for me as well to do a journey like this."
He plans to head up the east coast to Tauranga then go along the west coast through Taranaki, King Country and Waikato before finishing at Cape Reinga.
He has set up a Givealittle page where supporters can donate and hopes to raise $150,000. All money raised will be donated to No Duff Charitable Trust, Youthline and Good Neighbour Trust.
"My message is that if anyone is struggling, not to struggle in silence, to seek help within their support system and I encourage anyone to use their active creative outlet as a form of therapy."
To donate, visit: https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/ride-against-depression-rad?_ga=2.30657597.309150282.1517266467-472803175.1515914485#