POINT COOK resident Loren Bartley has her runners packed for this year’s de Castella Run for mental health.

Ms Bartley, 36, will take part in the 15 kilometre run with her husband, Tony, for the first time this year.

The de Castella Run, which raises valuable funds for mental health research, is celebrating its 30th year and will be held on 29 August at Kew Boulevard.

Participants can embark on a 5km walk or run, or try the 10km or 15km run.

Statistics show that one in five people experience mental illness during their lifetime, while one in two are directly or indirectly affected by mental illness.

Ms Bartley’s sister also suffered from the illness.

“It is a really good cause, so I thought I would do it. I signed my husband up at the same time, so I thought it would be a good thing for us to do,” Mr Bartley said.

“I’ve been telling a lot of people about it. Fitness triggered my involvement in it but the cause makes you feel better that you are giving at the same time.

“I definitely do know several people who have had mental illness.

“There are also a lot of people who, at times, you may wonder whether or not they are suffering from it.

“It can be a bit unknown and a lot of people, when they get in that situation, often don’t seek help.”

Ms Bartley has recently participated in the Run for the Kids and plans to take part in the Melbourne half-marathon later in the year.

Meanwhile, residents can register at www.decastella run.com.au and tax deductible donations can be made to the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc).

There will be $20,000 in prizes and giveaways available, along with team entry options, showbags for all finishers and the opportunity to meet champion marathon runner Rob de Castella.