Some think of addicts as people lying on park benches or falling out of a Wetherspoons but we’re normally working at very high levels. We’re athletes – I’ve had people message saying ‘I’m a triathlete, I’m a runner, I’m a tennis player and I’m an alcoholic’. We’re the people picking kids up at the school gate; we’re looking after your kids.

We’re all looking for the next hit which will make us happy. You think that the next run will make you feel good, or another drink will help you relax. But it won’t – all we have is now. People often say they’re running because they want to run a certain time or do a specific race, but what about now? What about today? Looking at the next day is such a waste. I spent whole decades trying to numb my feelings so I didn’t have to do deal with them. Now, I’m finally living life.

Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org.

For more information on There Is No Wall by Allie Bailey and her forthcoming book tour visit alliebailey.co.uk

“I ran 52 marathons in a year and no, it didn’t cure my depression”: Allie Bailey on running, addiction and saving herself