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Why the Andean Volcano Challenge is Important for Me

On 1 March 2020 I will set off from Quito, Ecuador with other HSBC colleagues to embark on an epic five-day journey covering 100 kilometres of high altitude trek to Mt Cotopaxi. This will be the most physically challenging trek I will do so far as I will be sleeping rough with basic amenities. The trek will take me to high altitude of 4200 metres with views and landscapes across the Andes mountain range, countrysides and surrounding volcanoes whilst also meeting local communities along the way. 

Aside from the physical training which I have to do in order to prepare for the trek and to complete this demanding challenge, I wanted to test and push myself mentally and physically. The other important goal which inspires me to do this challenge is to increase awareness for mental health and to raise funds for Mind. 

Why Mind?

Mental health affects everybody at some point in life. Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. Mental health affects your wellbeing and how you experience and cope with what day-to-day life events throw at you. According to Mind at any given year, one in four of us is affected by mental health problem. 

What are mental health problems? Check out this short video from Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/get-involved/world-mental-health-day/

With demands coming from all directions I'm finding myself affected by expectations and pressures at work and at home. It is not just me but I'm surrounded by people who are battling with their mental health. People may not always be open and comfortable discussing about their mental health, however it's so important to be sensitive and pay attention to the people who matters in your life. 

Mind provides advice and support to empower everyone experiencing a mental health problem. They have plenty of resources which you can access online or offline. 

How your money helps Mind

• £10 could help send essential information booklet about mental health to 40 people
• £40 could pay for 28 people to campaign for change 
• £70 could keep maintain online community 
• £120 could offer a lifeline to 8 people in desperate need of support from the Mind legal team
• £200 could help keep the Mind Infoline open for 1 hour, helping 35 people
• £300 could support a young person bereaved by suicide to access 1:1 and group support

I will be deeply grateful if you give generously to this worthy cause.