A MAN who once attempted to take his own life has revealed how running has helped him tackle his demons as he prepares to take on a marathon challenge for charity. 

Peter Redwood-Smith, 29, has struggled with his mental health since he was a teenager and has suffered with anxiety and depression. 

At his lowest point, the Rayleigh resident was unable to leave his own home and tragically attempted to commit suicide. 

But now, the avid fundraiser has been able to battle his demons through consistently running and is preparing to take on the Brighton Marathon in a matter of weeks. 

Echo: 'Superman' - Peter Redwood-Smith in training for Brighton Marathon'Superman' - Peter Redwood-Smith in training for Brighton Marathon (Image: Newsquest)

Peter is raising cash for Mind – a national mental health charity providing support to anyone struggling. 

He said: “I started running back in 2017 and ended up running a number of ultra marathons.

“In 2018, I set a challenge of running one organised race a week for a whole year. The idea was to push myself, working on my mental health and wellbeing, while raising money for good causes.

Echo: Achievement - All of Peter's medalsAchievement - All of Peter's medals (Image: Newsquest)

“I have always found it hard to motivate myself but having a good cause to support spurred me on. But I haven’t run a race since 2019, after I started to struggle with my mental health again.

“Deep depression and anxiety began to take its toll on me. Some days I couldn’t leave the house, crawl out of bed, work, or do housework.

“I believed my life had no value and I wanted for it to end.”

However, earlier this year, Peter was determined to turn his life around and signed up for the Brighton Marathon in April.

He added: “Running really helped in the past, and since getting back into it, you forget the benefits it brings.

“It helps you mentally and physically. I have been running in a Superman suit too, so people have been beeping, and waving, and the support has really helped lift me.

Echo: Race - Peter Redwood-Smith runs 24-race in 2019Race - Peter Redwood-Smith runs 24-race in 2019 (Image: Newsquest)

“Whilst I don’t think I can get rid it of my mental health struggles, I am now trying to channel it and find coping mechanisms.

“It is hard to suffer, be alone, and not reach out. But I hope people will either relate or know there are coping mechanisms and people to help. I hope I can spur others on.”

To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/peter-redwood-smith-brightonmarathonformind2024

Samaritans can be contacted on their free helpline anytime on 116 123.