Mental Health Awareness Week 2024: Movement
The theme, adopted by the Mental Health Foundation, for Mental Health Awareness week, this year is ‘Movement : Moving more for our mental health’.
Statistics* show that 1 in 4 people experience mental health issues each year, at any given time 1 in 6 working age adults have symptoms associated with mental ill health. Worldwide there are reported to be 792 million people affected by mental health issues.
Our bodies and minds are connected and therefore by looking after ourselves physically we take steps to help to prevent problems with our mental health.
Unfortunately, the demands on our time often lead to us not moving enough. This year the theme seeks to encourage people to find moments for movement in their daily routine.
How can movement help our mental health?
It has been shown that there are many benefits in undertaking physical activity for our mental wellbeing. By being active we release endorphins in the brain which are known as ‘feel good’ chemicals.
The chemical release can help with the following:-
- Managing stress
- Improving sleep
- Improving your mood
- Improving confidence
- Memory and brain functioning
- Managing symptoms of depression and anxiety
Finding moments for movement
When life is busy it can be tricky to fit in ‘yet another thing’. However we are encouraged to find moments for movement throughout the day, whether that be simply taking a break from sitting to stretch the legs and get some fresh air, utilising the time whilst you wait for the kettle to boil or you could even listen to music and have a dance.
Be mindful of the movement, take time to notice your breathing and be aware of the sights and sounds around you.
Feeling air on the face can help people to relax and feel less stressed.
Movement looks different for everyone and it is important that we do not compare ourselves to others and remember to celebrate your achievement of moving more.
Support with mental health
There may be occasions where either ourselves or the people around us suffer with poor mental health and there is a wealth of support around us to assist, some resources can be found here:-
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
For young people and children:-
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
Should you or a loved one be in a place of crisis or require one to one support then do consider speaking with a GP or calling 999 in an emergency.
*statistics referred to can be found at MHFA Statistics
