“By opening up and talking much more freely to people, things have improved greatly.”

Hi, I’m Mark, and Back Onside supported me when I struggled with my mental health after my best friend died by suicide in 2020.

After receiving support from Back Onside, I decided to set myself the challenge of running 22 marathons throughout 2022 to raise funds for a vital service. I am delighted to have raised almost £5500 for the charity throughout 2022 so far – I know it will go a long way!

I chose to do this because Back Onside is self-funded, so can only be sustained by donations or people like me fundraising. I was proud to give something back to such a magnificent cause that I had a personal connection with and would advise anyone who is thinking about fundraising just to go and do it. 

By setting up a simple JustGiving page you can take on a challenge and spread the word for people to talk and open up about mental health. 

Finally, if you are reading this and are struggling with your mental health, please reach out for support. When things are not good in your head, the smallest of problems are heightened massively, so try and talk to someone. You are not alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story; I hope it helps in some way. 

Mark