I'm walking in the Coastrek Challenge for mental health

Raising funds for Charity, Beyond Blue

My team and I are Chafing the Dream to raise funds for mental health.

I’m walking for mental health by taking part in Coastrek, the ultimate team trekking and fundraising challenge, proudly supporting Beyond Blue.

In 2020 a childhood friend was lost to suicide and they left behind a beautiful little girl. I am walking for her memory and so no other child has to grow up without knowing their mum.

Along with over 10,000 other Coastrekkers, mostly women, I will be walking a really, really long way in one day to support the three million people in Australia living with anxiety and depression, and those affected by suicide.

Mental health affects many people - here are the key facts:

9 people take their life daily

1 in 6 Australians currently experience anxiety, depression or both

1 in 3 women experience anxiety in their lifetime

1 in 6 women experience perinatal anxiety and depression in the year after giving birth

There will be very sore legs, sweaty hair and maybe a blister or two and plenty of chafing as we walk 30km over 7, 8 or 9 hours. There will also be meaningful chats, lots of laughs, camaraderie and connection, some snacks (don't forget the snacks!) and a sweet, sweet feeling of exhilaration when I smash my Coastrek goal after months of training and prep.

Each contact to the 24/7 Beyond Blue Support Service costs around $48 to answer. Your generosity will help connect people with immediate support, advice and referrals wherever they are.

Thank you for making a positive impact on mental health in Australia. Every donation helps!

Support my team and I here - coastrek.com.au/fundraisers/ShelleyTilbrook34025/