Former Soldier Campaigns for Mental Health Awareness Through Marathon Challenge

An ex-serviceman is currently at the midpoint of an endeavor involving running 26 marathons over 26 weeks, aiming to generate funds and promote understanding regarding mental health. Ashley Mitchard, a 22-year-old from Hanham, situated close to Bristol, commenced his first marathon in September and has since finished 14. Mr. Mitchard, who was a member of the Army between 2017 and 2022, has accumulated £2,400 for the organization Mental Health Matters. His objective is to motivate young males to discuss their difficulties. “Hopefully it spreads more awareness. Along my runs I speak about my emotions just to get the message out there,” stated Mr. Mitchard. He intends to undertake a run of approximately 300 miles from Bristol to Paris in March, signifying the conclusion of his challenge. “It’s been pretty tough to be fair but that’s what I like about it – it’s a challenge,” he communicated to Joe Sims of BBC Radio Bristol. Mr. Mitchard informed the BBC that the armed forces assisted him in consulting a psychiatrist when his mental well-being began to deteriorate in 2021. Despite not experiencing combat abroad, he described the training as arduous. “I’m not sure what started it,” he mentioned. “Fighting [during training] was a big thing I think. “In the military people just hid it and I started drinking to escape reality. The training is tough.” Mr. Mitchard, currently employed in the security sector, emphasized the significance for younger individuals to avoid “bottle things up.” “I feel it’s important for you to speak about your emotions, especially if you’re feeling down – it prevents people from taking their own lives,” he stated. “I want to help people and inspire people. Even if you can put your running trainers back on when you’re feeling down or go to the gym, that’s the main thing.” “There are people that will help you. There is help out there.” Connect with BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Submit your story concepts to us via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external links is available.