RUNNING TOGETHER FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH
BREAKING THE STIGMA - SUPPORTING ANDY'S MAN CLUB
Running has always been about more than miles.
For many of us, every step is therapy. Every run is an opportunity to clear our minds, escape the pressures of everyday life and reconnect with ourselves. It’s no surprise that so many runners talk about the positive impact exercise has on their mental wellbeing.
But what happens when simply getting out of the door feels impossible?
That’s where organisations like Andy’s Man Club are making an extraordinary difference.
#ITSOKAYTOTALK
Founded in 2016, Andy’s Man Club is a UK-wide men’s suicide prevention charity that provides free, confidential peer-to-peer support groups every Monday evening across hundreds of locations. Its message is simple but incredibly powerful:
“It’s Okay To Talk.”
The charity was established following the tragic loss of Andrew Roberts to suicide at just 23 years old. His family and friends wanted to ensure that other men would always have somewhere to turn when life became overwhelming.
Today, thousands of men attend weekly sessions, sharing experiences, listening without judgement and reminding each other that they never have to face their struggles alone.
The impact has been life-changing for countless people and continues to grow every year.
MEN'S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week, taking place from 14th to 20th June, provides the perfect opportunity for all of us to reflect on our own wellbeing and to support others.
At The Running Bug, we firmly believe that movement and community can play a huge role in improving mental health. That’s why we are delighted to be partnering with Andy’s Man Club to bring you a fantastic way to support the work they do as well as staying motivated and healthy.
INTRODUCING MIND OVER MILES VIRTUAL RACE
To mark Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week, The Running Bug is proud to launch Mind Over Miles – a brand-new 5k virtual race in support of Andy’s Man Club.
This event isn’t about speed. It isn’t about podium places. It’s about coming together as a community to raise awareness, start conversations and demonstrate that nobody has to face mental health challenges alone.
Whether you choose to run, jog or walk your distance, every participant will be helping to spread the message that support is available and that talking saves lives.
Event Details
- 📅 Dates: 14th – 20th June 2027
- 🏃 Complete your distance anywhere
- 🌍 Open to participants worldwide
- ❤️ Supporting awareness of men’s mental health and Andy’s Man Club
WHY THIS MATTERS
Mental health affects every one of us, directly or indirectly.
Running communities are often built on encouragement, friendship and mutual support. By partnering with Andy’s Man Club during Mental Health Awareness Week, we hope to encourage even more people to have open conversations and seek help when they need it.
You don’t have to be struggling to make a difference.
By taking part, sharing the event or simply checking in with a friend, you could have a bigger impact than you realise.
HOW TO JOIN US
In June, lace up your trainers and run for something bigger than yourself.
- Run for awareness.
- Run for conversation.
- Run for community.
And most importantly, help spread the message that it’s okay to talk.
Enter this virtual race at Mind Over Miles 5K for Men’s Mental Health
The Running Bug will donate 10% of all entry fees to Andy’s Man Club, but we can’t do this alone. We need your help.
Please donate whatever you can on our Mind Over Miles fundraising page at Running Bug is fundraising for ANDYSMANCLUB
Thank you for your support.