Most of you will already know that mental health is something I am passionate in talking about and normalising, even having a blog dedicated to my own mental health journey. 

For me, it's really important that those suffering from mental illness know they are not alone, that things will improve, and not to feel ashamed or unworthy of support from others. 

While being a great advocate of this mantra, I struggle to live by it myself, so in taking on this challenge I am doing it as much for others as for myself. I was first diagnosed with depression in 2011and, having gone through peaks and troughs, 2016/17 has unfortunately been a challenging one for me. However, I have sought help and am lucky enough to have a fabulous support group behind me. That's why I am ready and raring to start the new year off positively, both physically and mentally, with this challenge. 

Charities like Mind are out there for those like me, to support those people struggling, be a lending ear, and ensure that no one is struggling alone. I HUGELY admire this charity for the work that is does, and urge anyone to donate to this incredibly worthy cause- if for nothing else, it will make a little piglet like me get exercising!