Fundraising walk to be held next month to support depression charity

A fundraising walk will be held in Derry next month to support a charity which helps people with depression.

The AWARE Mood Walk will be held in the city on Friday, September 8.

The Mood Walks are a key event in the AWARE Calendar.

Anyone can take part and you can choose to walk or run 5k or 10k.

A spokesperson for AWARE said exercise was important in the recovery of depression and in keeping people mentally and physically well.

“The AWARE Mood Walks are a good opportunity to spend time with friends and family whilst getting out into the fresh air, doing some exercise and helping to raise money for AWARE - the national depression charity for Northern Ireland and it's a really fun night out for all the family.

“We are asking people throughout Northern Ireland to participate in a Mood Walk, walk a few #MilesForMentalHealth and show your support for the thousands of people in Northern Ireland suffering in silence with a mental illness such as depression.

“But with your help, we can reach out to more people and give them the help and support they need to recover.

“Registration costs £10. All money raised is put directly back into the services of AWARE and helping to support and educate people on the illness of depression and bipolar disorder in Northern Ireland.”

Registration is now open for the Derry walk.

“Exercise is good for you and lifts your mood, so this is the ideal way to begin the summer.

“The Mood Walk itself is either a 5k or 10k walk.

“As in previous years, 'Mood Walkers' can choose between the 5km and 10km routes. That's either along the Greenway to the Foyle Bridge and back or over the Bridge, through Bay Park, along the river, over the Peace Bridge and back to the Arena. Walk, run, cycle - it's up to you.

“The L’derry AWARE Mood Walk will begin at 6:30pm with registration opening at 6pm.

“Before the walk begins, all participants are invited to take part in a short motivating warm up to lift our moods and help get us get both physically and mentally prepared for the Mood Walk.”