My graduation day from C25K, started on a complete high, and ended, with the lowest of low. Due to a family mental health crisis.
I am struggling with my energy levels on my consolidation runs. Emotional trauma, really saps your energy levels I have found. However, although I am finding the runs a physical challenge at the moment. I am beyond thankful that this wonderful C25K programme has taught me how to run. At a time such as this, 40 mins respite out of a horrendous time, when all I have to think about is breathing, and moving is such a blessing. Running for me, has become the only tangible thing I have to cling onto. When all around Is crumbling; there is running.
I would like to encourage anyone who is struggling with their own mental health issues , or reeling with coping with someone else's mental health issues. That the benefits of the C25K programme, go far beyond the physical benefits to you. The sense of achievement & focus it gives you, are so beneficial to your whole well being.
I would appreciate any advice or tips other runners may be able to give me to cope with low energy levels. I am still managing to do 5K. Be it ever so slowly now.
I wish everyone currently working through the programme to feel joy, at the end of every completed run. To marvel at how far you have come , from Run 1. Continual astonishment , at what your body can achieve. And to know, you can and will make it to the end.
The support and information on the site is amazing, all of us encouraging one another through the programme, and delighting in each other's success as, one by one we reach graduation.👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🥳
To my fellow graduates....Happy running.
🏃♀️🏃♂️
Written by
Nervousrunner
Graduate
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
+1 from me. There are days when for two pins I could just go to sleep and never wake up. Somehow though when all I have to think about is the music in my ears, the Strava voice ricking off the distance and the feel of the ground under my feet, I can cope for just a little while.
It is good you have found running helpful, a very healthy coping strategy 👍🏼
Finding reasons to keep going can be tough sometimes but you are doing it, better times will come. For now just know that people care and are thinking of you.
Do you have access to any support atm? It sounds like maybe you might benefit from some additional support if you feel able to. You sound like you want things to feel better and that is a good starting point. There is lots of ways to find support, through your GP or online, Samaritans etc. Be brave. Seek the support you deserve. You wouldn’t ignore a fractured leg and taking care of your emotional health and well-being is no different. You are not alone and there are people who care.
I don't have a support network as such, when my marriage broke up people were full of the right words but never got backed up with actions somehow. I'm not the most confident of people, not very good at asking for stuff, and especially since the whole Covid situation started I've been retreating into my shell.
Apologies to the OP, feels like I have hijacked the thread, I'll withdraw gracefully now.
Apology not required! But do reach out, start with something that feels manageable- no commitment just a simple google search “I feel Low” or something similar then when you feel ready have a little read of some of the support services out there. You might find that something sounds like the right thing for you.
Sounds like it tough for you. I think Foxyblue is right, you deserve to feel better than you do. I'm so glad running helps but please consider asking for some extra support. A chat with your gp or contact an old friend and tell them you'd like a catch up. I often find having a walk with someone is easier than sitting for coffee if you are feeling a bit low, you can find plenty of distractions. Let us know how you're doing. Xx
I’m sorry to hear you’ve had a tough time and it’ll be no surprise that a large percentage of us on here have had or are experiencing challenges with mental fitness just as much (sometimes more) than physical
The important thing is you’re not alone and this C25K “family” have got your back throughout
I don't really have any advice in terms of the running as you are further ahead than me. Well done for all you have achieved with it, in clearly very challenging circumstances. I just wanted to send support and to say that your words really moved me. It is not easy to find the motivation to run when you have or are dealing with others with mental health struggles and some days will be easier than others. Now I just say to myself that if I didn't run I would feel worse and try to accept that is the best I will feel that day. I don't know if that makes sense but couldn't read your post and not reply. Wishing you all the best. Keep going x
I cried reading this post! ... took me on an emotional journey... loved reading it.. written from the heart
I hope you are doing ok and that you’re family member and yourself has a good support network ... life can be and is tough for lots at the moment... sending you big hugs 🤗
The bottom couple of paragraphs! - yes! so uplifting and so true! Written by someone who has been on this magical journey themselves..
You e done amazing - I hope to follow in your footsteps!
Remember to plan in some ‘Me time’ which means some YOU time! 💕 x
. I feel my running is my Me time. So much to organize now.
That 40 mins running is precious.
I am trying to keep myself focused on my graduation plan. In that 40 mins. To build stamina and speed. So that I can join my local park run. ( post lockdown)
You are so close to your own goal now. I am virtually clapping you on. You are doing great 👏🏼👏🏼
Hey, you are doing great, keep going and things will improve, maybe they are already
Tips for low energy and running, we just go out without much of a plan, sometimes it’s great and we run well sometimes it’s tough and we don’t go far and sometimes we can’t be bothered so have a bit of a walk and go home
Things are still tough. Thank you for your reply. I really love your approach to running. I think I need to be a bit more relaxed about mine. Especially at the moment. ....
So if I'm tired. I'll try. But take a leaf out of your book and walk if it's too much. ...still moving..right 👍🏼
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
🏃♀️🏃 JUNE 2024 GRADUATION BADGES ARE HERE 🥳 🌟 
What year did you graduate and are you still running?
12 weeks ago and then now.......
Starting out - the struggle is real!
When is your runniversary? Isn't C25K the best? 🎉👏👏👏😁
