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Battle with mental illness provides Kingsley resident with reason to run

Tyler BrownJoondalup Times

ALYCE Potter has spent the past four years raising thousands of dollars for Lifeline WA after recovering from the debilitating effects of anxiety, chronic insomnia and depression.

The Kingsley resident described those days as the “depths of darkness” that not only affected her life but everyone’s around her.

She recovered with the help of professional support and her family and friends, but said she realised how stigma was a barrier for many people living with a mental illness or experiencing suicidal thoughts and looking for help.

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In 2013, she decided to do the HBF Run for a Reason to raise awareness and funds for Lifeline WA.

She has now completed the annual run three times and credits the event with giving her focus to exercise and practise self-care.

“I found the HBF Run for a Reason great for my physical and mental health and the atmosphere on the day is awesome,” she said.

“I am running the 4km with mum, one of my biggest supporters, and it’s important to me to help spread the message of hope and to encourage others to reach out for help.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel and I am very thankful to live mentally healthy now.”

To register for the May 28 run and support Lifeline WA, visit www.hbfrun.com.au.

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