100 Talks for Change – Mental Health
On Thursday 05th of October, we hosted 2 talks for our Year 10 and 11 students in the main hall. The Talk has been supported by Hays and titled ‘100 Talks for Change’. Two Mental Health speakers are touring the country speak to 50 schools across 20 academic days aiming to impact 10,000 lives.
It’s no secret that we are in a mental health crisis, especially within education. Our youth are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts more than any generation before them. About 1,500,000 under-18s will need new or extra help with their mental health as a direct result of Covid.
We were visited by Oliver Newton but he and his compatriot Daniel Wilsher will be putting together a documentary titled 100 Talks for Change, which we’ll be showcasing the #100talksforchange live event.
I lost over 10 years of my life to mental illness. My days were controlled and consumed by OCD/Intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and depression. Opening my eyes in the morning quickly became my biggest challenge! And all the things I loved, and had previously taken for granted; soon became a thing of the past. I was 22 years old.
Thankfully 5 years ago I was handed a lifeline in the form of running! And through the power of running, I’ve been able to rebuild my life. I run a mental health support page and a CIC (charitable organisation) called Run4YourMind Foundation. Offering trainers, kit, 121 support, and a 3-month running plan to those that need it the most.
My passion to support mental health, and desire to help others has led to my dream job – becoming a MHFA (Mental Health First Aid England) Instructor, alongside facilitating bespoke mental health training programs, and delivering lived experience talks to businesses, colleges and schools, all around the world.
I’m incredibly grateful that the darkest days of my life have forged this path, as I know I’m in a position now where I can make a real difference.
Oliver Newton – Mental Health Speaker & Trainer Founder of Run4yourmind Co-Founder Talks For Change CO.
