Mental Health during COVID-19

ByShannon Tevardy Coolican

Longevity Exercise Physiology Drummoyne,Edgecliff, Marrickville,Bella Vista, Randwick, Lindfield and Balmain look at mental health in the current COVID environment.

Why exercise is important now, more than ever….

As of recent times in the middle of a global pandemic, it shouldn’t come as a shock that this time has brought about immense struggle for a lot of people. In particular, the mental health of all Australians, young and old. People have been locked inside, restricted from seeing love ones and being stripped of jobs and their income. Its during these times, when being active is most important.

A study conducted by the Black dog institute highlighted that 78% of the study’s participants reported a significant deterioration in their mental health over this period, whether it be a result of lockdown or anxiety related to infection. This is a hard hitting statistic considering around 45% of Australians experience a mental illness in their lifetime.

However, the Australian government has recently made an emphasis on prioritising mental health by allocating $165.9 million to mental health services for the COVID-19 pandemic response. But we should not just rely on government for funding and change… one of the easiest most cost effective ways to improve your mood and mental health is exercise!

Exercise is considered an evidence-based therapy for individuals suffering from mental health conditions, and has the ability to boost mood and reduce common symptoms of mental illness. With mental illness, comes a high risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disease and we all know that exercise is important to prevent and treat these issues.

All humans experience episodes of poor mental health, sadness, anxiety, stress – whether they are diagnosed with an illness or not. Exercise is most important for these individuals too, improving stress levels, concentration and energy levels.

Benefits of exercise related to mental health:

  • Improved sleep
  • Improved overall mood
  • Increased energy levels
  • Reduced tiredness
  • Reduction in weight
  • Increased productivity

Below are the best types of exercises that are proven to improve mental health:

Aerobic exercise (running, cycling, swimming)

Research suggests that cardio aerobic exercise can be as effective as anti-depressant medication treatment in treating mild cases of depression.

Walking

Walking, whether it be on a treadmill or in the outdoors releases endorphins which result in reduced stress hormones, bettering mood and alleviating depression.

Resistance training

Evidence shows that using weight to strengthen muscles is beneficial for those with depression. Resistance training is also proven to improve an individuals self esteem which may improve overall mental wellbeing.

Discuss the benefits of exercise on your physical and mental health with one of our Longevity Exercise Physiologists

1300 964 002

 

Written By Shannon Coolican

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