It’s good to walk! People across Sussex asked to step out for mental health this November

The days are shorter; the weather is ‘mixed’ at best, but that doesn’t mean you have to hide away. This November, the Mental Health Foundation is inviting people from Sussex to embrace the change in the weather, step outside and join Walk 100 Miles this November, because 100% of people deserve better mental health. 

Now in its second year, the charity’s Walk 100 Miles in November challenge is free to join and open to everyone. Participants can take part at their own pace, in their own way, throughout the month.

Zoe Lonergan, Senior Fundraising Manager at Mental Health Foundation, said: “We know that physical activity has lots of benefits for our mental health - helping manage stress, build confidence, lift mood, and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

“Whether it’s a brisk morning walk before work, a lunchtime walk with colleagues, a family hike on the weekend, or just a gentle stroll through your local park or along the beachfront; all these steps count in improving your physical and mental wellbeing.

“The challenge is opening to everyone, as everyone deserves good mental health. Every step you take on this challenge will help us build a society where mental health matters and 100% of people can thrive.”

The challenge is designed to be inclusive for all abilities and can be achieved any time during the month of November. 30 days to do it your way.

Key details:

• Challenge Dates: 1 - 30 November

• Goal: Walk 100 miles – you choose how, date and time.

• Cost: It’s free to join!

• Registration: Open now at mentalhealth.org.uk/walk100

• Fundraising Target: Whatever you can raise - every contribution matters

• Taking part in ‘Walk 100 Miles in November’ is good for you and everyone

Social connection is good for our mental health; it can strengthen our relationships and reduce feelings of isolation. Through Walk 100 Miles in November, participants can join with others, friends, family and colleagues - and can ‘walk and talk’.

A problem shared - sharing how they are feeling and talking about their day can provide a sense of relief and unburdening for many people; no matter how small the issue may seem.  

Giving to others through fundraising and supporting a good cause is proven to be good for our mental health. Acts of kindness make you feel good as well as helping others. So does trying something new and planning for the future – change can be beneficial to how we see the world and having a target in mind gives us a focus and something to strive for.

Being active can reduce stress, improve mood and help boost energy levels. It releases serotonin in our brains that makes us feel better. Whilst the seasons are changing, and we are blessed in the UK with a variety of seasons - often in one day! This also means our landscape and the nature we experience changes. From walking in crunchy leaves, to feeling the cool crisp air on your skin, connecting with nature helps people feel grounded and present.

All these benefits, plus Walk 100 Miles in November is free! You will also receive a free T-shirt following your first donation.

Register now and join the movement for better mental health. For more information or to sign up, visit mentalhealth.org.uk/walk100