Mental health is a Marathon

Exeter resident Thomas James is hoping to raise £1,750 for mental health charity Mind by taking part in this years iconic London Marathon.

Thomas said: "In January of last year I was struggling with my own mental health. Like most people I never thought that type of thing would happen to me. I was finally diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress. I learnt this was due to unresolved abuse I had suffered thought my childhood and early adulthood.

"Unfortunately not everyone gets the support they need to cope with their mental health. The NHS was not able to help me, due to the lack of funding here in the southwest. I am extremely thankful and fortunate to have an amazing partner and friends who continue to support me though what has been a difficult time in my life, even when they didn't quite understand.

"This is why I am running the Virgin London Marathon on behalf of Mind. "

One in four people over the next 12 months will suffer with their mental health. With the greatest course of death among men under the age of 35 being suicide.

At mind.org.uk they believe no-one should have to face a mental health problem alone. Mind will listen, give you support and advice, and fight your corner.

To support Thomas please visit: www.unknownstar.co.uk or tweet him @unknownstar