A deep desire to create a platform that could help address the pressing issue of mental health in our society propelled fitness enthusiast Brandon Porle to kickstart the movement Miles for Minds
The latest National Population Health Survey (NPHS) found that the prevalence of poor mental health in Singapore rose from 13.4% in 2020 to 17% in 2022.
The infographic published by the Ministry of Health also reported that willingness to seek help from informal support networks referring to friends, relatives, colleagues, religious leaders or teachers in school rose from 69.1% in 2021 to 79.7% in 2022.
With Miles for Minds, Brandon hopes to raise awareness, foster supportive communities for those in need, prevent tragedies, and ultimately improve lives by prioritising mental well-being.
The movement aims to achieve this through a multifaceted approach that includes fitness-related fundraisers, educational talks, community outreach initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and strategic partnerships with NGOs and fitness communities.
Miles for Minds inspires to offer a safe space for anyone looking to engage in physical activity surrounded by a supportive community or to provide an informal support network for anyone who needs it.
“Mental health awareness and resilience are paramount to me. Having experienced first hand the transformative power of prioritising mental well-being, I’ve seen how cultivating resilience and understanding mental health can empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges with strength and grace,” said Brandon.
Sport and fitness have played a significant role in Brandon’s mental health journey. He describes exercise as being his anchor during challenging times, providing him with a sense of purpose, accomplishment and resilience. For Brandon, the discipline, focus and endorphin release that comes with physical activity have been instrumental in managing his psychological and emotional states.
“My journey with sport and fitness began during my time studying in the United Kingdom, where I initially struggled with insecurities and lacked confidence due to being chubby,” he recalled.
“Exercise became my sanctuary, a space where I could channel my emotions positively and find solace. What started as a necessity soon transformed into a passion, driving me to explore various forms of physical activity and pushing my limits to new heights.”
Brandon’s weekly workout schedule includes strength training, running, some form of a group class with friends and family such as CrossFit or HIIT. Believing in the importance of balance and diversity in fitness to achieve overall well-being, Brandon regularly changes up his routine with martial arts, yoga or even trying out a new sport, most recently being Pickleball.
“The only reason I believe in love is because of the way I love” – is a quote that Brandon saw first on social media and holds close to his heart. It reminds him that through acts of compassion, empathy and understanding, we can create meaningful connections and positively impact those around us.
Brandon’s vision for Miles for Minds extends beyond borders. He hopes to establish Miles for Minds as an official NGO/Foundation in Malaysia, formalising the movement’s commitment to mental health advocacy and replicating this success locally in Singapore.
Join or contribute to the cause in various ways such as participating in Miles for Minds events and initiatives, volunteering your time and expertise, spreading awareness through social media and making donations to support the movement’s programmes.
Miles for Minds is currently raising funds for Do You M.I.N.D Singapore, a mental health initiative by Touch Community Services.
With a vision to expand its reach, organise more events and activities, and strengthen partnerships with like-minded organisations, Miles for Minds is running towards making a positive and lasting impact.
Follow @doyoumindsg and @brandonporle to stay up to date on how you can be a part of this meaningful cause.