The next instalment of AWARE NI’s #MentalHealthMarathon is here, reminding us all that mental health is a journey that can take time, patience and consistent effort – much like a marathon!

We’re proud to continue teaming up with our supporters competing in the Belfast City Marathon to share their journeys with mental health.

Join us in cheering on our next marathoner, the lovely Nicola McPeak! Read on to learn more about Nicola’s journey with exercise and running and how she encourages all of YOU to look after yourself both physically and mentally:

“I’ve been working out for about six years & love challenging myself. It’s funny I’ve been working out for a long time, but I am always noticing that the body & mind are capable of so much more than we think. We often quit things too early without ever seeing our full potential, so despite weight training for six years, running is something I find difficult (it’s not an activity I ever felt good at), so I wanted to throw myself into something that challenges me, to show myself I’m capable of doing whatever I put my mind to. 

“I’ve found that running is my “me” time; it’s the one thing that gives me structure during tough times. It’s my stress reliever, sleep helper, mood improver, and way of making my mind & body feel good. 

“I’m hugely passionate about looking after ourselves physically & mentally - it’s something I’m always encouraging people to do. My main reason for fundraising for AWARE NI was simply because nobody should ever face a problem alone. I want to encourage people to get support and to realise there is a way forward. I feel the more we encourage others to talk about their mental health we can get rid of the stigma attached to it. 

“With AWARE NI being the depression charity for Northern Ireland, it’s one close to my heart. I know a few people who have suffered from depression & have turned to AWARE; it showed me how much of a positive impact this charity has on our community. This service allows people to talk openly about their mental health & provides them with the skills to help maintain positive mental health. If I can help (even a little) by running a marathon to raise some vital funds for this amazing charity, or if I can even encourage more people to reach out for help, then that will make it all worthwhile. 

“If you’re thinking of taking part in the event, I’d say…do it! You are capable of so much more than you think. The commitment, the dedication, the consistency - it challenges you & builds character. Overall remember your why; there are going to be plenty of tough training sessions & moments you want to quit. But think of the bigger picture and the incredible difference you are making by running for AWARE NI. You’ve got this!”

If you’ve signed up to participate in the Belfast City Marathon and would like to join us in making a difference to local people living with mental illness, please get in touch today: fundraising@aware-ni.org

Tags: AWARE | Depression | Fundraising | Mental Health