Former Millicent resident Emma Donald is set to run her first double marathon to raise funds for Beyond Blue.

Ms Donald set herself the challenge of running 84km in total along the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail.

She ran her first 42km just weeks ago and is about to run her second.

Beyond Blue is an Australian organisation that provides support for mental health and well-being and aims to raise awareness of depression, anxiety and suicide prevention.

Ms Donald is hoping to raise as much money as possible for Beyond Blue and said every donation would make a significant impact on mental health in Australia.

The organisation is close to her heart, as Ms Donald struggles with anxiety and depression and said she talked openly about her mental health because she is a passionate advocate for reducing the stigma of mental illness and raising awareness.

She has experienced the pain of losing family members to suicide, so she wants to let people know they are not alone, and things will get better with the right support.

Ms Donald attended Tenison Woods College and now resides in Ballarat. It has been a difficult year as she has been separated from her family living in Southend and Robe, who she has not seen since January.

“Due to the craziness of the year, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the wonderful Beyond Blue,” she said.

Ms Donald has been running consistently during the year and said running was an outlet that helped her through dark times because it freed her mind of worries and negative thoughts.

“It just makes my mind be free,” she said. “You’re just thinking of running, you’re not thinking of anything else.”

Ms Donald said her husband, family and friends had been very supportive of her goal and people had been donating and offered to join her for parts of her runs.

“It’s really nice, because other people care about what you’re doing and want to help in any way they can,” she said.

Ms Donald said she hoped to run the whole 60km trail next year.

There is 24/7 support available for those who need help by contacting Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 131 114.