Just as with marathon training, recovery from mental illness requires consistent effort, with ups and downs along the way. It’s a gradual and ongoing process, but it is very much possible.

In the ‘run-up’ to this year's Belfast City Marathon, we’ve teamed up with a number of our supporters to explain their motivation for taking part!

Next up, is AWARE NI’s very own Hannah Moore! Hannah is participating in the team relay at the Belfast City Marathon on Sunday, 30 April, to raise vital funds and awareness for local people with mental illness.

"I started running in 2019 after being roped into a charity run with my sister. What began as a show of solidarity for my sibling soon became a treasured routine. An opportunity for me to be entirely alone with my thoughts to process: no music, no podcast, a mindful exercise, not just physical - almost like moving meditation.

"Some things in my personal life had happened which led me to feeling entirely out of control. And as someone who has dealt with anxiety most of their life, this feeling doesn't sit too well! I felt I could finally regain control of something by dedicating time to a fitness goal. Whether extending my run by half a kilometre or shaving off a few seconds, I had a purpose and a focus - a time entirely for self-care and self-improvement.

"Last year, I was part of AWARE NI's cheer squad based along the marathon route outside our Belfast Office on Duncairn Gardens. Seeing the streams of people flooding the street in aid of their chosen cause, I felt inspired to be on the other side of the barriers for this year's event – and for no other charity than AWARE NI.

"Working for AWARE NI, I've seen first-hand how vital mental health support is needed in Northern Ireland. Each day, I'm met with a new story of someone who has either lived with mental illness themselves or cared for someone on their road to recovery. These stories can be heartbreaking but also extremely inspiring. Living with a mental illness takes incredible strength, and I feel privileged to run in honour of our service users."

Have you, your colleagues or your gym signed up to participate in the Belfast City Marathon yet? We'd love you to join our #MentalHealthMarathon - by contacting our fundraising team!