Samuel Paton knows what it’s like to struggle with mental health issues.
The Ray White real estate agent first experienced depression in his early 20s so is well aware of the long road many often walk alone.
He turned to running early on as a way of coping with low moods, stress and anxiety – now he’s using that strategy to help others struggling to survive each day.
Next Sunday he’ll run 85km from Middleton to Glenelg to promote mental health awareness and raise funds for Black Dog Institute.
While an experienced runner, Ms Paton said it would be his “biggest ever physical challenge”.
“I’ve done three marathons before – the most recent marathon I did was the Adelaide Marathon – but this will be the first time I’ve run that far,” he said.
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Samuel Paton with his wife Kate and children Poppy, Max, Fred and Darcy. Picture: supplied.
“I’m genuinely really excited for it.
“I had my first bout of depression in my mid-20s and it was around this time that I really dove into running, using it as a regular tool to remain positive and stay on top of my challenges.
“This run represents the long road that so many walk everyday, often quietly and often alone.
“It’s tough, it’s isolating, and it takes everything you’ve got.”
Mr Paton, who served in the Royal Australian Navy for eight years prior to getting into the property industry, worked 80-hour weeks early in his real estate career.
Now a father to four children under the age of five and the proud director of Ray White Marion, he’s learnt how to better manage his busy life without burning out.
Juggling that busy life made Mr Paton commit to running more this year.
It was a drive to Middleton one day that inspired him to make the trek by foot – which he’ll do with the support of two close friends, one a running coach and the other a physio.
Training has been in the early hours of the morning, around 3-4am, or at night after his children have gone to bed.
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Samuel Paton opened his own business, Ray White Marion, last year.
He’s hoping his run will not only encourage people to donate much-needed funds but open up about what’s happening in their lives.
“Trying to cope by yourself is far more difficult than if you have support around you,” he said.
“I always just try to be open about it and normalise the discussion so if people are struggling, they’re not afraid to ask for help.”
“My wife Kate and kids Poppy, Max, Fred and Darcy, give me the greatest purpose and motivation in life, and running.
“I talk to friends and family, I eat sweet treats, I do online shopping, lego, colouring in and journaling too.”
Mr Paton said donating to Black Dog Institute supported their work in research, early intervention, education and support services to help improve the lives of people living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and suicide risk.
He’s already raised more than $5000 – well above the $2000 he hoped to reach.
You can donate to ‘Sam’s Long Run Home’ here.
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