Running Toward Recovery

By Madison Johnston

From 2019–2022, I struggled deeply with my mental health. I found myself abusing alcohol and drugs, which is an awful mix for someone whose mental health was already fragile. I ended up in the ER more than once in crisis, and truthfully, I didn’t always get the care or support I needed there. But, it led me to the person who did.

The #1 thing that changed everything for me was finding a therapist. Finding the right fit can be so hard, but when you do, it can be life changing. I’m incredibly grateful to still have the same therapist in my life today. She walked with me through the darkest days of my life, and I wouldn’t be where I am without her.

Movement became part of my healing. I never thought I’d be someone who could run, I used to say I couldn’t even get through a single kilometre. But it helped me process emotions, reconnect with myself, and slowly rebuild trust with my own body.

Crossing the finish line of a half marathon wasn’t just about running 21km. It was about honoring every past version of me who didn’t think I’d make it this far.

1,367 days sober, and this finish line felt like a love letter to every version of me that kept going.