Growing up, I’ve faced my own challenges with mental health and have always believed that the societal pressure on men to "man up" and suppress their emotions is extremely harmful.
74% of suicides are men struggling with mental health issues. This heartbreaking statistic underscores the urgent need for change.
That’s why I’m running a half marathon in support of Men’s Mind Matter, an incredible charity who specialise in suicide prevention. They not only provide resources and support to those in crisis, but also provide information for friends and families to help their loved ones.
For me, physical exercise has been a powerful tool—a way to take a step back from a variety of situations and return with a clearer, stronger mindset.
Ironically, I’ve always hated running. But I’m taking on this challenge to prove to myself and others that the doubts and negative voices in our heads don’t define us. They only hold us back if we let them.
Let’s break the stigma around men’s mental health. It’s okay to not be okay—and together, we can make a difference.