Why I'm running

I grew up with mental health struggles but never recognised them as such. It left me feeling isolated, like I was broken, especially as I was bullied at school. Whilst I was at university I also didn't realise that my younger sister was struggling with her own challenges. It scares me so much that she had nowhere to turn to.

Getting the support we needed eventually was life changing for both of us, her in being diagnosed and understanding her BPD and me with ADHD and depression. 

My sister is in an incredible place thanks to eventually getting the right support and diagnosis. She even has a blog about mental health struggles to help others: https://symptomsofliving.com/. 

I'm also in a better place now thanks to therapy, group sessions and running (among other sports). It took me a long time to admit I was struggling and even longer to share. But I'm glad I did as it is what led to my recovery.

I want to raise further awareness around mental health challenges, speak openly around my own and help others get the support they need together with Mind. Mental health challenges need to be normalised and treated with the same seriousness as physical health issues. Not everyone can afford to get the help they need but everyone deserves it. I'm so incredibly proud to be a part of the Mind running team this year.

I will be running this race for Fleurine, my sister, because I am so unbelievably proud of how far she has come and inspires me every day.

What could your donation do?

• £20 could run an online peer support community Side By Side for an hour, helping people connect with others and feel less alone.
  
• £40  could help a Infoline answer calls, providing someone with vital support and information about help available for them.
  
• £50 could help Mind campaign for better mental health services from the Government, ensuring people get the support they need, as soon as they need it.
  
• £100 could pay the cost of one of Mind's Infoline or Legal Line advisors for a whole day.