I'm running in the great Scottish run Glasgow half marathon to raise awareness for mental health issues, let people know about the local charity there to assist people in their darkest moments, and raise a little money hoping it'll go a long way.

Growing up mental health is not something we're all well educated in. My first experience of mental health issues came in early 2015 when I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, although if I'm being realistic I'd been suffering for years without being able to put a name on it. I had a quick trip to the doctor and sent on my way to counselling. A few sessions later and I thought the world was a brighter, better place with opportunity around every corner.

In November of that same year one of my closest friends, Adam Alcroft, took his own life. A note was left which described a traumatic event that many of us knew about, and symptoms of PTSD which were unknown or overlooked. The last time I saw Adam we had gone to the pub, he told me about the sick line he'd put in for stress, and I shared what counselling had done for me. Later I recall saying that I felt there was something he kept hidden from people. Adam was lost and didn't know where to turn. We were there but didn't know how, where, or what to look for.

I struggled to get over Adams passing. I got extremely depressed. Face to face counselling is no longer an option from your GP so I opted for antidepressants, which ironically compounded the depression thanks to the suicidal thoughts side effect. I had three months over summer where I had something else to focus on, but soon after anxiety started spiralling into depression. As the year anniversary came closer I got worse. I couldn't go back on antidepressants nor could I talk over the phone.

It was 12 months of mental turmoil before I was recommended RAMH by a friend. I showed up and was asked a few questions (truly an awkward moment when you find out thats where your next door n3ighbour works) then was offered a place a few weeks later for counselling two days a week. I was there for CBT but they'd several options as well as groups.

I can gladly say that I'm better now. I do know that what I dealt with may not be the last time I experience mental health issues. Should they return RAMH would be the first place I'd go. I will endlessly recommend RAMH for anyone who is struggling to cope that can't get any therapy through their own work, college or university.