Improving physical health can help your mental health

We all know that regular exercise is good for the body. Playing a sport, jogging, cycling or even just walking to work all have physical benefits. Now, there’s even further reason to get fit, with studies suggesting that physical health and regular exercise is also good for your mind! Recent research suggests that as little as 11 minutes of exercise a day can help to prevent symptoms of anxiety and depression.

“Regular exercise may help prevent and treat mental health conditions, as well as reducing the risk of developing depression and dementia as you get older.”

Regular exercise may help prevent and treat mental health conditions, as well as reducing the risk of developing depression and dementia as you get older. With one in five of us experiencing a mental health illness in any given year, there is no better time to dust off the runners, grab your active-wear and start hitting the gym!

Mental health benefits of exercise

Gives you a feeling of more energy
May reduce anxiety and creates a happier mood
Encourages social interactions when joining group activities
Helps to improve sleep
Improves your self-confidence
Gives you a goal to strive for
May reduce stress levels
Allows for calmer thinking patterns
Allows you to concentrate for longer periods
Improves your physical health, potentially replacing behaviours that are bad for your long-term physical health, e.g. smoking/alcohol
Provides new experiences, and a distraction from negative thoughts
Gives you a feeling of stronger resilience.

Ways to start doing more physical exercise

Jogging around your local area
Walking on your lunch break
Riding a bike to work
Playing a sport
Joining a gym
Swimming at the beach or pool
At-home workout videos online
Fitness classes (HIIT, Yoga, Spin, Pilates, Crossfit, etc.)
Hire a personal trainer
Do more jobs around the garden (housework is also a great physical workout!)

If you need someone to talk to, MensLine Australia professional counsellors are here to provide information and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call us on 1300 78 99 78 or access online counselling.

Improving physical health can help your mental health

Helping a mate who is suicidal

It can be pretty hard for some men to express their feelings. They may be embarrassed or worried they’ll be seen as weak. They may think they don’t have anyone to talk to, or just don’t know where to start to look for help. Seeing a mate suicidal can be a challenging time, read on for advice on how to help.

Helping a mate who is suicidal

Improving physical health can help your mental health

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