Is the sun shining or do you have a cloud over you today? No, I'm not asking about the weather - I'm asking about your mental health.

Last year, I had what my husband and I affectionately refer to as my "episode". Basically, a breakdown that saw me pacing up and down the road outside work not knowing what to do or where to go. The fact it was outside work was a coincidence- our mental health can deteriorate anywhere,anytime and often for no apparent reason - just like a sudden physical illness.  

This was all strange to me - I am usually in control and able to make decisions, sometimes even acting too impulsively.  But I needed urgent support to help me just cope with the smallest day-to-day things like eating, taking the dog for a walk, planning a shopping list.

Through the support of a understanding GP, talking therapies, medication, Peer Support groups and welbeing journals, I'm starting to win this current battle.

Imagine not being able to get painkillers for a physical pain? That is what it is like if your mental wellbeing is suffering and you have no support available.  This charity, amongst many others, enables people to work through the dark clouds. It is not easy - dealing with any illness is hard, but having people available to give  both medical and holistic support is vital.

As a "thank you" to the charity that has helped me on my way, and to challenge my body as much as my mind has been challenged these past 8-10 months, I'm doing 3 challenges this year. The first is Turners Hill to Brighton run (27.2miles) with my little sister. Then 26.2 mile walk around Surrey 3 Peaks with my big sister and then the Grand Finale of 67 miles walk/jog the 3 of us together.

I'm asking (well my knees and ankles are begging) you to please donate 1) To show my body it is worth sticking to this ridiculous training schedule, 2) to raise money for a brilliant charity and 3) to spread the word that it is ok to say you're not ok!  Oh...and you'll be in good company with the young Royals supporting mental health charities.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.