This April I’ll be pounding 26.2 miles through the streets of Manchester to raise money for Mind.

It’s time to normalise talking about our mental health. 

If you had sprained ankle you wouldn’t feel you couldn’t tell anyone, if you are struck down with the flu, it’s not something that feels awkward to talk about, and yet when it comes to talking about how we’re feeling in our heads, we’re embarrassed, we hide it, we don’t want to talk about it.

1 in 4 people in the UK suffer from some form of mental health problem, yet less than 50% will be taking any steps to find help. The first step is feeling like you are able to talk about it. 

Statistically we all know so many people who will really be struggling with anxiety and depression, or perhaps have undiagnosed OCD, bipolar disorder or battle with phobias in secret. The more we can lift the stigma, the more these discussions feel normal and the more we can help people. 

Through the years I’ve had to battle with anxiety and at times spells of depression which is something I’ve barely ever spoken about. Finding running has helped me hugely with my mental health in recent years,, and this year I’ve decided to run the Manchester Marathon to support the great work of Mind. 

I’ve seen so many friends, colleagues and family members who have been through their own mental health issues, and in raising money for Mind my hope is that I’m doing my little bit to help empower those with mental health problems with the support they need.

If on the off chance you were planning to get my a gift this Christmas, please don’t, please donate to Mind, and let’s try to ensure that nobody has to face mental health problems on their own.

And if you’re reading this and struggling at the moment, then please know that you can reach out and talk, you’re never on your own x