A mental health problem will affect 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 10 young people this year. It's time to end the stigma associated with mental health and ensure that conversations on the topic are considered as normal as discussing a twisted ankle or a common cold. 

I know several friends and family members who have suffered from the impact of mental health difficulties and so do you. I am convinced that ridding society of this taboo will positively benefit those who struggle on alone and feel afraid or unable to voice their opinions and ask for help.

Over the next few weeks I will be running a mental health campaign in my secondary school with the objective of creating a lasting legacy that will encourage students to be open about their experiences with one another and with teachers who are ready to support them.

The campaign in school will consist of the following:

- assemblies on 'supporting friends' delivered to each year group

- a pledge sheet where students are invited to write down what they will do to make a difference to mental health - answers will then be posted on a huge pledge wall in school

- a student ambassador group in which volunteers will plan a fundraising activity that will raise awareness for the cause 

- an online blog where students will be invited to read first-hand experiences of mental health (and then contribute to the content themselves) (follow the link to read some of these amazing pieces: https://medium.com/@jgreenwood_99813)

- an Instagram account @maa_mentalhealth (https://www.instagram.com/maa_mentalhealth/) to share content for students

- a 24 hour challenge after the assembly where students will be challenged to speak to one person in their life about mental health

To book end this initial phase of the MH campaign, I will be running the Edinburgh Marathon for Rethink Mental Illness on the 27th May and would appreciate whatever monetary support you can offer. 

It's Time to Change.