Mental Health is not something that most people are comfortable talking about in this country. Which is one of the reasons why we have a Mental Health Awareness Month in May. It is important to talk about and take away the taboo of mental health conditions. I have had my bouts with situational depression and being overwhelmed. Not to mention a traumatic childhood that led to PTSD. One of the tools, in managing my mental health and mood, that has been very effective and beneficial to me is staying physically active.
Exercise has been shown to help reduce symptoms of many mental health conditions. Some of the strongest evidence for the mental benefits of exercise centers on depression and anxiety. 2015 statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate 300 million people suffer from depression worldwide, with depression ranked the number one contributor to global disability.i There has been increasing amount of research into physical exercise and its positive impact on PTSD and even more complicated mental health conditions like schizophrenia. Older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing depression according to the CDC. Physical exercise helping with mental health conditions older adults are more prone to, makes exercise for older adults vital to aging well.
There are quite a few reasons why exercise helps one’s mental health. Here are just a few according to Victoria Health Department in Australia:
- The levels of chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, stress hormones and endorphins, change when you exercise.
- Regular exercise can help you sleep better, and good sleep helps you manage your mood.
- Exercise can improve your sense of control, coping ability and self-esteem. People who exercise regularly often report how good achieving a goal makes them feel.
- Exercise can distract you from negative thoughts and provide opportunities to try new experiences.
- It offers an opportunity to socialize and get social support if you exercise with others.
- Exercise increases your energy levels.
- Physical activity can be an outlet for your frustrations.
- Exercise can reduce skeletal muscle tension, which helps you feel more relaxed.
So, in addition to keeping your body strong and keeping your physical abilities to stay independent longer, being physically active keeps you mentally fit!
As we age aches and pains in one’s knees and lower back can keep one from staying physically active. How to get started with exercise despite the aches and pains? This is where my own won battle with knee and low back issues makes Stay on Target Fitness uniquely qualified to help!
To get started, fill out the “Request more information” form, here on the web page or give us a call 914 953-8949! During your no obligation/FREE consultation we will show you how we can keep you moving better with less pain and have a better mood! 😊
Happy Mental Health Awareness Month
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i World Health Organization (WHO). Depression and other common mental disorders – Global health estimates. 2017. Retrieved February 1, 2018 from http://apps.who.int/iris/ bitstream/10665/254610/1/WHO-MSD-MER-2017.2-eng.pdf?ua=1.
