Running changed my life: I no longer need medication and I’ve lost three stone
Emily Wallace used to think running wasn’t for her.
But now she’s sprinting the soles out of her trainers – and says taking up the sport has led to a medication free life.
The 22-year-old, from Irvine, first started running three years ago to help her lose weight.
However she has since discovered it’s the perfect passion to help manage her battle with bipolar disorder.
She remembers falling ill eight years ago: “I was just exhausted all the time and sleeping for up to 23 hours a day.
“My mum took me to the GP who referred me to psychiatry for depression.
“It was only after a year of tests and medication that I was eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
“I was prescribed lithium which started to level out my emotions.
“Mentally, I felt much better but there were physical side effects.
“I couldn’t sleep, my energy levels were down… and it led to weight gain.
“I ballooned from 12st to over 17st because of the medication.
“I knew I didn’t want to be on the medication forever, but I didn’t know how I would cope without it.”
Emily was told by cardiology she needed to lose weight, so decided to start walking.
“One day I was out for a walk but wanted to get home quicker so I ran.
“I got quite a buzz.” She decided to try running, starting small at first.
“I would run for a lamppost, then walk for a lamppost…then I got a bit more technical, running for a minute, then walking for a minute.”
Now Emily is training for her second 10k as she prepares to take on the Great Scottish Run in September.
“I just love running,” she said. “I go out around three times a week. I no longer need medication – and I’ve lost three stone.”
Emily, who is currently studying Early Years at Ayrshire College added: “I feel the best I have for a long time. Running changed my life.”