Over 500 people have thrown their weight behind a mass press up challenge following a call to arms backed by mental health experts.

The 22 Push Up Challenge has swept its way across social media in recent weeks.It involves participants uploading a video of themselves completing 22 press ups over 22 days. The challenge was launched by an army veteran in Michigan, USA, to get people talking about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It was prompted by the reported statistic that 22 US veterans complete suicide every single day.

Mental health experts in Lanarkshire lent their support as Scottish participants of the viral Facebook and Twitter campaign embarked on a live mass outdoor event in Strathclyde Park on Saturday (August 20th).

Special guest and SAS veteran Colin MacLachlan was joined by staff from North and South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnerships, who were in attendance offer information about mental health and supports available.

And despite falling short of a world record breaking attempt, the organisers, Army veterans Cammy MacLeod and Terry Lowe, said the main mission objective had been accomplished thanks to the combined efforts.

“We engaged 500 people in health, fitness and well being and achieved a greater knowledge and understanding of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Mental Health,” said Cammy.

“We boosted awareness of points of contact where people could go and seek help and raised over £1500, to be divided by charities.”

Terry added: “We would like to thank our supporters, sponsors and the staff who turned out to offer information. A bleak dreary morning turned into a bright sunny day and thanks to the efforts of all involved, the event has underlined why there is hope for the future.”

Kevin O’Neill, Public Mental Health & Well-being Development Manager representing Health and Social Care North Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, echoed that sentiment.

“The day provided the ideal opportunity for people, no matter their background or vocation, to think about taking care of their own mental health by finding some space from the stresses of life,” said Kevin.

“If we wait for this time, we often find it never comes which is why we have to make our own breathing space – and exercise is the ideal way of doing that.”

Kevin added: “Feeling low, stressed and overwhelmed with the challenges of life can be emotions that we all feel. We are encouraging people to feel comfortable about talking about our mental health.”

If you or someone you know needs support, please speak to your GP or contact the following agencies who will be glad to help:

• Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87 (free to call 6pm -2am and weekends) www.breathingspacescotland.co.uk
• Samaritans 116 123 (24hr service) www.samaritans.org .
• Childline 0800 1111 (free 24hr service) www.childline.org.uk

To find out about the supports and help available in Lanarkshire visit: www.elament.org.uk or call 0800 073 0918 (North Lanarkshire) or 0330 3000 133 (South Lanarkshire)