Why I’m Putting One Foot Forward for Mental Health

This walk means more to me than just reaching a kilometre goal. 💛

This October, I’m taking part in One Foot Forward to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute and support their work in mental health research.

There are a few very personal reasons why this cause is so important to me.

I’ve experienced my own struggles with mental health and know how important it can be to have support around you when things feel overwhelming. Having people who listen, check in and remind you that you don't have to face everything alone can make an enormous difference.

I also know what it feels like to lose someone to suicide.

When I was 16, one of my friends died by suicide. Losing someone so young had a profound impact on me, and it is something I have carried with me throughout my life.

Earlier this year, I also lost my uncle to suicide.

Two very different losses, years apart, but both reminders of just how important mental health support, understanding, research and early intervention are.

These experiences are a big part of why I’m choosing to put One Foot Forward.

I’m walking for the people who are struggling right now.

I’m walking for the people who are supporting someone they love.

I’m walking for the people we've lost.

And I’m walking because I believe we can do better.

Why mental health research matters

The Black Dog Institute conducts research into mental health and suicide prevention, working towards better understanding, prevention and treatment of mental illness.

Research can help us discover better ways to identify when someone is struggling, provide effective treatment and support people before they reach crisis point.

I can't change what happened to the people I've lost. But I can choose to do something with those experiences.

I can walk.

I can talk.

I can help raise awareness.

And I can help raise funds for research that may make a difference to someone else's future.

One foot forward

Every kilometre I walk is going towards something bigger than me.

If you’re able to donate, I would be incredibly grateful. Every contribution helps support the Black Dog Institute's work and brings us another step closer to better mental health outcomes for Australians.

And if you can't donate, that's okay too. Sharing my fundraiser, checking in on someone you care about or simply being willing to have an honest conversation about mental health can make a difference.

For those we've lost. For those still struggling. For those supporting someone they love. And for a future where fewer families have to experience this kind of loss.

One foot forward. 💛