Running the Athens 10K to raise money and awareness about Mental Health!

Dear Friends and Family,

As most of you might know in a week I will be participating in the 10K race in Athens.

Yes I know that I do not seem like a person that runs or generally exercises hard… and I can confirm I’m not. Participating in the Athens 10 k. Race started as an “outrageous” idea 6 months ago with my friends Nicos and Andreas and as time passed by it grew on me.

But before going on about me and the race, let me ask: do you know that half of all mental health conditions start by the age of 14 and most go undetected and untreated? Unfortunately. So, I’m running to raise awareness and funds for mental health.

To be honest, after signing up and doing some practice runs I figured out that it would be even harder than I first thought. I, Menelaos, a person that would get a car to go to a kiosk, 200 meters away, to actually run a distance 50 times longer...hm…

However, in life we must set goals and persist. After some motivation from friends and family and using tricks like mobile applications to remind me that I have to go for practice, I am really happy to share with you all that I feel ready for next week. Bring the challenge on…

Why I am telling you all this? The answer is really simple. I just wanted your attention. No not for getting credit or some High Fives. I wanted to tell you that my goal this year is to raise awareness for mental health and also some money that I will then donate to a great cause.

My choice is to give the money to the voluntary organization for the Protection of Mental Health! («Σύνδεσμος Προστασίας Ψυχικής Υγείας»)

Why I chose this cause, apart from the fact that members of my family are involved and I have been hearing about mental health since a young age…? I will give you some facts so you understand:

Fact 1: Half of all mental health conditions start by 14 years of age, but most cases are undetected and untreated.

Fact 2: Worldwide, it is estimated that 10-20% of adolescents experience mental health conditions.

Fact 3: Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds.

Fact 4: Globally, depression is the ninth leading cause of illness and disability among all adolescents, whereas anxiety is the eighth leading cause.

Fact 5: Adolescents with emotional disorders may also experience excessive irritability, frustration, or anger, apart from depression or anxiety.

Fact 6: Harmful use of substances (such as alcohol or drugs) is a major concern in several countries. This can lead to risky behaviours, including unsafe sex or dangerous driving.

Fact 7: Fortunately, there is a growing recognition of the importance of helping young people build mental resilience, beginning from the earliest ages. This helps adolescents cope with the challenges of today’s world in a better way.

Fact 8: Building mental resilience from an early age can help prevent or manage and recover from mental problems amongst adolescents and young adults. Yet, prevention begins with a better understanding of early warning signs and symptoms of mental illness.

So to cut a long story short:

Everyone faces their own battles every day. Some days you deal with them, some days they consume you. When you are in a good place, many other are not. Be kind, be considerate and be that person that listens. It might just brighten up someone's day!

Sorry for the long Post but the issue is really important to me.

Thanks for any Donations/ and if you chose not to just be safe and spread love!

Lots of Love to Everyone
Menelaos