Men complete Joburg to Durban run for mental health awareness

A group of 11 men has completed a 704 kilometre run from Johannesburg to Durban to raise funds and awareness about men’s mental health.

The group, led by fitness trainer Taariq Stokes from Wentworth south of Durban, began their journey on Wednesday from Eldorado Park, Johannesburg, and completed it on Saturday in approximately 76 hours.

Stokes says the initiative aims to raise R50 000 to support mental health institutions and establish community workshops for men facing mental health challenges.

“Most of us as men don’t know how to speak. Not that we don’t have people, but because of society, expectations, and pressures, we don’t know how to speak to people, and it’s going from generation to generation,” says Stokes.

He adds, “It’s extremely important for us to raise awareness for men out there who may be suffering or may not be suffering to speak up and get help. If you have anxiety or depression, there is a light at the end of the road. You don’t need to suffer alone.”

Stokes says the funds raised will go towards supporting mental health programs and creating safe spaces for men to discuss their struggles.