Tommy Byrne, founder of Bigger Than The Trail, uses trail running to advocate for mental health. Inspired by his own struggles, Byrne created the organization to provide support for those battling mental health issues, blending physical activity with community and professional help.
“I think we live in a culture where it’s pull up your bootstraps and just get it done and life’s hard,” Byrne says. “And that whole narrative of being tough and the grittier, the more you go through, the stronger you are. I think it’s a lie.”
Bigger Than The Trail offers more than just a workout. By setting up group runs and events, Byrne has helped over 500 people across the country find solace and strength through trail running. This initiative is not intended to replace therapy but to act as a stepping stone for those in need of mental health support. Participants often find the physical act of running and the camaraderie it fosters as therapeutic in their journey to better mental health.
“What we really advocate for Bigger Than The Trail is, as positive as running is, we want to also build community and give people access to professional support,” Byrne says. “So that if running was ever taken away from them, whether injury or age or anything, they have tools in their toolbox to continue to have healthy mental health dialogue and conversations.”
Byrne’s journey began with personal hardship. He lost his father to suicide at 18 and later faced his own mental health challenges. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Byrne realized the importance of seeking help and building a support network. He wanted to ensure others had the support he found, leading to the inception of Bigger Than The Trail.
The organization’s impact is measured not just by miles run but by lives changed. They’ve provided over 1,500 months of free counseling, emphasizing the importance of professional mental health support alongside the benefits of physical activity.
Bigger Than The Trail thrives in its community. Runners connect over shared experiences, offering each other encouragement and understanding. This sense of belonging helps participants navigate their mental health journeys, knowing they’re not alone.
Byrne’s vision extends beyond the trails. He aims to equip individuals with the tools to maintain mental health, regardless of their ability to run. His message is clear: everyone is bigger than the challenges they face. Through endurance and community, Byrne and Bigger Than The Trail continue to make strides in mental health advocacy, proving that the support of others can help light the way through life’s darkest paths.
