I have suffered from anxiety and bouts of depression for as long as I can remember. I felt ashamed and embarrassed for many years, and did not open up to anyone. Thanks to increased mental health awareness I opened up about my struggles and received the support I needed. 

I am raising money for the charity Mind because they continue to raise awareness for mental health; help remove the stigma attached to anxiety and depression; and support those who are suffering. Mental health will effect 1 in 4 people. That means it might be you. It might be your mum. It might be your mate down the pub. Whoever it is, it is vital that they know it is ok to discuss what they are going through without being judged. 

I have not received a charity place from Mind to run the Amsterdam Marathon. Instead I have chosen to raise money for this great cause because it is an issue that I am passionate about. 

I debated whether running a marathon was enough of a challenge to ask people to donate to a charity close to my heart. I love running and would be probably running this marathon with or without charity donations. I then reasoned that of course running was the perfect way for me to support Mind. Running has helped me enormously with my anxiety. It has changed my life in many ways. I hope that as well as raising funds to support those suffering, my marathon will outline the benefits of running for mental health. 

So if you can afford to donate a small amount to help that would be amazing. If you cannot, then please share this page. Thank you.

Lastly, I would like you to remember that mental health can affect anyone. So be nice to those around you, ask how people are, and be there to listen to those who need some support.

Thanks again,

Matt