Running Together to Break the Stigma Around Men's Mental Health

This November, members of Leeds Medics and Dentists Rugby Club will take on the Leeds Abbey Dash while raising money for Andy's Man Club, as part of a month-long initiative aimed at encouraging open conversations about mental health.

The campaign has been organised by club member Finn, who will spend every day in November running from the Hyde Park and Headingley area to Weetwood Playing Fields alongside a different club member each day.

During each run, the pair will discuss one thing that has gone well that week and one challenge they have faced. The concept is simple but powerful: to create a space where members feel comfortable talking openly about their mental health and to challenge the stigma that can often prevent men from discussing their feelings.

The month-long challenge will culminate in the club taking on the Leeds Abbey Dash together on 29^th November, followed by a fancy-dress fun run the next day. Participants will then hear from an Andy's Man Club ambassador, who will share the charity's message about the importance of talking and seeking support.

For Finn, the initiative is deeply personal.

Earlier this year, he lost a close friend to suicide. The pair travelled to school together every day, and the loss continues to have a profound impact on him.

Finn said: "It's hard to know that such a big part of my life growing up is missing. No one in their early twenties should be going to a friend's funeral, and I hope this initiative helps make that a reality."

Through the challenge, Finn hopes to honour his friend's memory by encouraging greater understanding that it's okay not to be okay and by creating more opportunities for honest conversations about mental health.

More than anything, he hopes the campaign encourages people to reach out when they are struggling.

Finn said: "If even one person feels more able to ask for help or have a vulnerable conversation because of this initiative, then it will have made a difference."

Alongside raising awareness, the club is also fundraising for Andy's Man Club, a charity chosen by Finn's friend’s family following his passing. By coming together as a team throughout November, they hope to support the charity's vital work while helping to ensure that no one feels they have to face their struggles alone.