As someone who has directly received Bristol Mind's funding, I have experienced first hand the positive impact it can have in a time of need. As someone who has always struggled with their mental health, the funding helped me access support that so many people still cannot benefit from. This needs to change.

After sitting on a waiting list for 18 months, I finally received much needed support from Bristol mind due to it's amazing fundraisers. Without those who fundraise, a charity such as Mind cannot deliver the support that it does. I hope that the money raised gives someone else a chance to see that it does get better, no matter how long you struggle and wait for support - something good does happen eventually.

In an effort to give back and provide this support for someone else, I will be running the Trail Escape 25km trail race. I have chosen this race as I feel it is representative of my journey as someone who lives with a mental health challenge - it's never a straight line (and is usually very hilly). Even when you feel you've hit a rock bottom that never seems to end, it does improve eventually.

I'd also like to echo the importance of exercise and the outdoors for improving mental health, through participating in this race. Even though it may not seem feasible when you feel so low, even a short walk can help clear your head and help make sense of things better. Even when it's the last thing you want to do, it can make a huge difference when on the road to recovery (I'm proof of that!!).

What can your donation make happen?

Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem. But hundreds of thousands of people are still struggling.

Mind believe no one should have to face a mental health problem alone. They'll listen, give you support and advice, and fight your corner.

Please support me by donating whatever you can. A donation of:

£10 - could pay for 100 people to receive Mind's information booklets. Giving them trusted mental health information when they need it most.

£20 - could pay for 2 calls to Mind's Infoline which offers people trusted support and advice from highly trained advisors.

£32 - could keep Side by Side open for 1 hour. Side by Side is Mind’s moderated online community where anyone can join, talk and find support. 24/7. It’s a safe place to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

Thank you - please give what you can. Even if its £1 - it all adds up!!