‘You’re not alone’
A Peeblesshire fitness coach is using his own mental health struggles to power through two ultra-marathons next month
OPENING up about your mental health can be a daunting thing, but doing so to thousands of people is almost unimaginable.
However, for Cardrona fitness coach Rob Mathews this is a new reality for him.
Eleven months ago Rob attempted to take his own life.
But in a matter of weeks the 23-year-old will take on two ultramarathons in two days, covering more than 100km for Movember.
In a bid to help raise vital funds for the charity and also as part of his own mental health journey, Rob shared his story to his coaching Instagram page.
A video shared to his social media, which amassed 15,000 views in its first 12 hours of being live, saw Rob share how he was taking something which is so easily stigmatised and turning it into his power.
He said: “Attempting to take my own life, it sounds really strong.
“It’s probably not a thing that up until releasing the video I sort of realised the impact that statement can have on people.
“At one point I felt I didn’t have a choice.
“Then after attempting [suicide] and coming out on what is a very lucky side of things – because there was a good chance I could have been a statistic – it was that concept of I now have a choice, and I wanted to use the run as a chance to lead by example.
“Here’s me being completely up front and honest and now I’m going to turn what everybody sees as a painful experience into a purpose.”
Rob shared that posting the video, and telling people about his mental health struggles, “lifted a weight off my shoulders”.
He is encouraging people, especially men, to explore new ways to talk about their mental health and that those conversations can be a byproduct of other activities, such as a run.
“Even if people feel like they aren’t able to get help, they are, and there are great charities like Movember that have actionable steps and resources to help you,” he added.
“Just know you’re not alone and you’ll be amazed at how quickly things can get better.”
Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental distress can contact Samaritans on 116 123 or NHS 24 on 111. In a mental health emergency call 999.