Wheelchair Marathon Raises Awareness for Men’s mental health
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health. Learn about the event and the Archie Matthews Trust.">
In a remarkable display of strength and solidarity, Les Hampton is undertaking a wheelchair marathon on a specialized roller system to champion men’s mental health. The event, scheduled for Saturday at Everlast Gym in Cheltenham, aims to honor the memory of Hampton’s friend Jay and raise crucial funds for the Archie Matthews Trust, an organization dedicated to supporting young men’s mental well-being.
“Crazy” Challenge for a Crucial Cause
Hampton’s ambitious endeavor involves navigating the full 26.2 miles on a racing wheelchair positioned on a static roller, a feat he describes as “crazy” due to the constant upper-body exertion required without the benefit of downhill momentum. He anticipates the marathon will take several hours, pushing his physical and mental limits.
Pro Tip: Supporting a cause through physical challenges can significantly boost awareness and fundraising efforts.
The event, dubbed “Jay’s Event,” is a collective effort by members of the Everlast Gym community, deeply affected by the loss of their friend Jay, who tragically took his own life. The Archie Matthews Trust, based in gloucester, will recieve the funds raised, which will be used to address critical gaps in mental health support for young men.
Remembering Jay and Supporting Mental Health
Hampton recalls Jay’s encouraging spirit, stating that his friend would likely call the marathon “crazy” but would wholeheartedly support the cause. He remembers Jay’s motivational words in the gym, “come on Les, just one more,” which now fuel his determination to complete the challenge.
The fundraising goal for the event is £2,000. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the second leading cause of death for individuals between the ages of 10 and 24 in 2021, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support [1].
A Day of fitness and Fundraising
Beyond the wheelchair marathon, “Jay’s Event” features a range of activities designed to engage the community and raise additional funds. These include a marathon swim, a charity spin session, and a team challenge involving pushing a weighted sledge down a 15-meter track for 3,500 lengths.
Jo Allen,the gym manager,emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health within the gym environment,noting that many young men may be struggling silently. He hopes the event will encourage open conversations and provide support for those in need.
Did You Know? Regular physical activity can significantly improve mental well-being and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression [2].
The Archie Matthews Trust: Plugging Support Gaps
Steve Matthews, chairman of the Archie Matthews trust, and his wife Steph, will be present at the event.The trust was established in memory of their son, Archie, who struggled with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression before tragically taking his own life last year.
Matthews explains that the trust aims to “plug some of the support gaps” they encountered during Archie’s journey, focusing on young men, particularly those with neurodivergence, who are at a heightened risk of mental health issues and suicide.
He added that Jay’s story deeply resonated with them, and they are committed to providing assistance to prevent others from experiencing similar tragedies.
Event Details
| Event | Location | Date | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jay’s Event | Everlast Gym, Cheltenham | saturday | Raise funds and awareness for men’s mental health |
| Wheelchair Marathon | Everlast Gym, Cheltenham | Saturday | Les Hampton’s challenge to support the cause |
What other creative fundraising ideas could support mental health initiatives? How can communities better support young men struggling with mental health challenges?
Understanding Men’s Mental Health
Men’s mental health is a critical issue frequently enough overshadowed by stigma and societal expectations. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues than women, frequently enough due to concerns about appearing weak or vulnerable [3]. This reluctance can lead to delayed treatment and increased risk of severe outcomes, including suicide.
events like “Jay’s Event” play a vital role in breaking down these barriers and fostering open conversations about mental health. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, communities can encourage men to seek help when they need it and promote overall well-being.
frequently Asked Questions about Men’s Mental Health
- What are some common mental health issues affecting men?
- Common issues include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Why are men less likely to seek help for mental health issues?
- Stigma, societal expectations, and concerns about appearing weak frequently enough prevent men from seeking help.
- What can be done to improve men’s mental health?
- Promoting open conversations,reducing stigma,and increasing access to mental health services are crucial steps.
- How can I support a male friend or family member who is struggling with their mental health?
- Listen without judgment, offer encouragement, and help them connect with mental health resources.
- Where can I find mental health resources for men?
- Organizations like the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Mental Health America (MHA) offer valuable resources and support.
Support for mental health is available. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 988 in the US and Canada, or 111 in the UK.
Share this article to spread awareness and support men’s mental health. Leave a comment below with your thoughts and experiences.
