Fermanagh woman to climb mountains to raise funds for mental health charity

Natasha Little from Lisnaskea is challenging herself to climb Cuilcagh seven times in seven weeks before conquering Slieve Donard on her 32nd birthday (May 23) to raise vital funds and awareness for local depression charity, AWARE.

After being diagnosed with depression at the age of 19, Natasha experienced incredibly low periods which could be all-consuming:

She said:"On bad days, I would feel lost, stuck in the dark, and fixate on every mistake or find that every sad moment would continuously spin around in my head. It's exhausting and drains you of all emotion until you're practically numb."

Fortunately, Natasha's diagnosis led to treatment, which significantly improved her mental health. Although Natasha's journey with mental illness is ongoing, she explains she is now in a stronger position to help others by raising awareness of maintaining positive mental health.

"Thankfully, now, most days are good, but even when I have a bad day now and again, I know what I can do to feel better. I chose to take on Cuilcagh, and Slieve Donard as getting out into the fresh air, keeping fit and seeing others makes me feel good and helps to clear my mind. The walks have helped lift my mood, and when I reach the top, I feel like I've achieved something!" she said.

Natashsa added:"I knew I wanted my fundraising to impact mental health services locally. Knowing the great work AWARE do across Northern Ireland made the decision easy.

"In particular, I've always thought that it's important for children to learn about mental health at a young age, and loved how AWARE provides education and information within schools."

Not only has the challenge been a positive outlet for her own mental health, but Natasha's challenge has also created opportunities to talk to other people about mental health.

She said: "I'm incredibly encouraged by the amazing support of my family and friends – some of them have even joined me on a couple of the hikes! Fundraising to raise awareness of mental health has meant that I've had more people coming to me and opening up about their personal struggles. They know there won't be any judgement and that talking is a healthy way to deal with how they are feeling."

Margaret McCrossan, Community Fundraiser for AWARE, said;"We're so proud of Natasha and grateful for her support. Not only has she raised vital funds to help us continue supporting local people with mental illness, but she's also inspired others around her to open up and talk about their own mental health. As a charity, our vision is a future where mental health is no longer stigmatised, and ambassadors like Natasha are helping us take steps closer to this. We wish her all the best with the rest of her challenge."

AWARE's free-to-attend support groups welcome people living with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The groups provide a safe space to meet with others on a similar journey who can understand, encourage and suggest helpful coping methods.

AWARE also deliver mental health awareness courses to schools, workplaces, community groups, and hospitals to equip people with the tools they need to best look after their minds.

To find out how AWARE can help, go to www.aware-ni.org.