Mental health awareness helps Glenn run to new heights

Glenn Bate at Diss Athletics Club

A Norfolk runner is encouraging people of all ages to consider athletics as a hobby after describing how the sport has helped him tackle a rare illness.

Glenn Bate was diagnosed with a life-limiting condition known as Cadasil after suffering a stroke in 2015.  Many of those who have the incurable condition can suffer with depression and anxiety.  However, Glenn was determined not to let his diagnosis get the better of him and enrolled in a Mental Health First Aid qualification with Norfolk-based Rosedale Training so he could help others.

He is now a Mental Health first aider with Diss Athletics Club where he is an enthusiastic member.  Glenn said:

“Running was part of my desired recovery process and good for my mental health as I struggled with my own diagnosis.  The club has been absolutely fantastic, providing support and advice but most of all encouragement to progress – regardless of my illness.”

Rosedale Training is aiming to help others increase awareness of how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health.  They are running another Mental Health First Aid course in Diss on 10th and 11th July with limited places remaining.  A further course on 11th and 12th September is also open for bookings.  Director Anne Beckett-Allen said:

“With at least one in four people in the UK affected by a mental health condition at some point in their lives, it is great to be proactive in having conversations about poor mental health and break down some of the myths around it.  There should be as much support as there would be if it were a physical illness.  Glenn is a great example of someone who has benefitted from our course and is now able to help other people.  He is a real inspiration.”

Meanwhile, Glenn has recently been invited to join the committee at Diss Athletics Club.  He said:

“I regularly compete in road races despite my condition, which would not have been possible without the support and friendship of my fellow members.”

He is urging anyone interested in trying athletics to join him at a free taster evening being held at Diss Sports Ground on 10th July from 7pm.  Adults will be invited to try road running while younger people can find out more about track and field events.

View dates for our forthcoming MHFA courses here.