So, what’s my story eh? Why is Mind so important to me? 

Well, for a large portion of my life, I’ve battled through mental health issues. Not too long ago I found out I have Bipolar Disorder (more specifically bipolar affective disorder type II), and I also most likely have Aspergers Syndrome. I’ve gradually become more comfortable talking about mental health. And even though I’m still slightly uncomfortable, I think it’s important to talk about it. 

Throughout most of my teens I struggled with an eating disorder along with anxiety and depression. Even as a young girl I had OCD tendencies. If you know anything about these disorders, you can imagine some of the many battles I’ve faced.

Despite all this, I am a strong and happy young woman. I do not let mental health hold me back and I am not often daunted by challenges in my life.

A lot of people who know me only a little probably wouldn’t guess I have mental health issues; partly because I manage them well but also because it’s not abnormal to have mental health issues. I want to help erase the taboo of mental health and make it more normal to discuss so that sufferers don’t feel alone.

Part of the reason I’ve come so far and become the person I am today is because of Mind. Sure, there’s been many other things that have helped me, but Mind has made me feel normal. When I found out I had bipolar, I was a little scared. I felt weird, like I didn’t know myself. When I used Mind’s services I felt comfortable, like they understood. I read about my disorders and I didn’t feel scared or strange anymore. I felt like I could be okay with it all. Basically, it gave me a kickstart to getting back on track to feeling stable again.

So that’s kinda why I’m doing this trek. I’ll be climbing and walking at high altitudes, in hot temperatures for 6 days. I imagine this will test me and push me to my limits, but I know I’m strong enough to not let my mental health get in my way. 

Please support me in any way you can so that I may take on this challenge. Even £2 or £3 will help. Or if you can’t manage that right now then please share my page so that other people can read my story and maybe understand the importance of raising awareness of mental health. We are not alone in this 💙