We have all been affected by mental health issues in one way or another. Whether it be supporting friends and family or looking after our own mental health, it can be difficult to know how to do this best.

I know first hand how difficult it is to bring this topic up and to support those who need it. My goal for 2017 is to join the campaign to promote mental wellbeing and tackle the stigma associated with mental health. As part of this, I am challenging myself to Run Every Day (R.E.D) in January and I am also taking part in the Liverpool Half Marathon in May in aid of Mind.

It is estimated that one in four people in the UK are affected in any given year, yet often people are ashamed to talk about it. I am hoping my campaign will help to change this attitude, encouraging people to speak up about their experiences.

These past two years in particular have really challenged my perceptions of what “mental health” really is. Dealing with bereavement myself as well as supporting family and close friends going through the same thing, it was the first time I had had to work on being “mindful”.

It was difficult, however with the encouragement of my friends, family and colleagues, I was able to stay positive. I am so very grateful to everybody who supported me!

I have always enjoyed running and find that it helps me clear my head and get the old endorphins going! It is only a few days to go until I embark on the R.E.D challenge and I kindly ask you to dig deep in support of Mind – a charity that campaigns to raise awareness and promotes understanding of mental health problems. 

In return, I will send photos of my training progress – a sweaty selfie or two!!

Thanks for taking the time to visit my page and for reading. Here’s to 2017… wishing you all a Happy New Year! 

Ling x

http://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/

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