WE is correct. Strayed gave such detailed info I can identify two separate diagnoses I would make, only one of which has to do with grief... I could of course be incorrect, but there's sufficient to make the case were I to be consulted on the matter. But I would want to meet her in person to make a full assessment, as even nonfiction can be, well, less than accurate...

People who backpack aren't always backpackers, either. Unless you want to call anyone who throws on a pack a backpacker, in which case there are a bunch of folks downtown engaging in such (they're usually called homeless here). Going walkabout for self improvement is more accurate for her adventure, imo.