On Sunday 7th April 2024 I will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for the Mental Health Foundation Charity. Having lost a friend to suicide last year, had friends who have had problems with their mental health, and being someone who has personally struggled with their own mental health, this charity is extremely important to me. For me, running has been an impactful coping mechanism and a regular positive in my life as I aim to reach weekly distance and time goals. Running helps me to be mindful and present, and generally, I tend to feel a whole lot calmer and relaxed after a good run. Therefore, it made sense to me to set a goal and challenge myself to running a half marathon by April. To go hand in hand with this, I can give back to those who support us in times of crisis and suffering by fundraising for the Mental Health Foundation.

My goal is that my contribution and donations will go towards programs and strategies to prevent people from suffering a mental health crisis in silence and to influence people to ask for help and open up to their chosen support networks. As someone who has recently taken this into action and has taken the first steps in being open about my own mental health experiences, this cause is even closer to my heart than it was before. Prevention is at the heart of the Mental Health Foundation charity and they aim to find and address the sources of mental health problems to help people and communities thrive. The Mental Health Foundation provides invaluable support via practical research and resources and drives change towards a mentally healthy society for all. The charity supports communities, families and individuals to live mentally healthier lives, with a particular focus on those at greatest risk. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my page. Every donation is greatly appreciated and is a step closer to ensuring that every single person who is struggling, no matter how big or small they think it is, can receive the support, advice, treatment they deserve. My thoughts are with anyone who is suffering or has lost anyone due to their mental health. If you feel as though you are struggling, please speak to your loved ones, or a free confidential help line, such as the Samaritans 116 123 who are free to listen and talk to you 24 hours of the day. The first steps to asking for help are extremely daunting but they are the most crucial. It is ok to not be ok. Remember to be kind yourself always❤️