Building toughness through RUNNING - Mental & physical goal setting

Taking care of your mental health isn’t always easy, and for me, running has become one of the most effective tools in my journey to recovery. In this video, I’m sharing how running played a crucial role in helping me overcome challenges with mental health, particularly during my recovery from psychosis. Running has been far more than just exercise for me-it’s been a way to clear my mind, find balance, and rebuild my confidence.
This video offers a candid look into how physical activity, especially something as simple as running, can significantly impact mental well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or even recovering from psychosis like me, running offers a sense of control when everything else feels chaotic. It wasn’t always easy-I started with basic goals, sometimes as simple as getting out of the house, but each step forward made a difference. Over time, running has helped me build both physical and mental resilience, leading to improved mental clarity and emotional balance.
You don’t need to be an experienced runner to get started. Programs like Couch to 5K have been great, and in this video, I’ll explain how taking things slow and steady has kept me motivated without burning out. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or looking for ways to push through mental barriers, running is a simple, results-driven activity that can help with focus, emotional recovery, and mental strength.
I’m not here to talk about the technical aspects of running or give you jargon-filled advice. This is about the personal, real-life benefits of movement and mindfulness-results that go far beyond just fitness. I’ve been where you are, and I know how important it is to find something that makes a real difference in your mental health. I hope my story helps others see that even small changes can lead to significant improvements, whether you’re overcoming challenges with psychosis, managing anxiety, or simply looking for a way to clear your head.
In this video, you’ll hear about my own struggles, how I’ve used running to overcome obstacles, and why staying active has made all the difference for my mental health. If you’re ready to start your own journey, I encourage you to take that first step. Running might just be the thing that helps you as much as it’s helped me.
Instagram: @itsmikemcdonnelluk
TikTok: @itsmikemcdonnelluk
Website: www.mikemcdonnell.co.uk

[@markpatrick5246]

I was running 70 miles per week up until my mom died 20 months ago and fell into a deep anxious depression that hasn’t responded to treatment z can’t run anymore since I’m dizzy anxious all the time … running really helped me for years but this time the illness is winning

[@itsmikemcdonnell]

Hi Mark,
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. I can’t imagine how tough that must feel. Running can wait when it comes to things like that. Take care of yourself and I hope you find the help you need to keep fighting on ❤️
Mike

[@markpatrick5246]

@@itsmikemcdonnell thx Mike I miss the positive effects of running and stable mental health