In today's fast-paced world, where stress and mental health challenges are becoming increasingly prevalent, it's crucial to shed light on the importance of suicide prevention.
Suicide is a deeply concerning issue worldwide, and the UK is no exception. Fortunately, recent studies have shown a compelling link between exercise, depression, and suicide prevention, offering a glimmer of hope in the battle against this devastating problem.
September is suicide prevention month so lets dive into how exercise can help...
The Grim Reality in the UK
To understand the gravity of the situation, let's start with some recent statistics.
According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in the UK, suicide remains a significant public health concern.
In the first 6 months of 2022, there were 2,515 registered suicides in the UK, with males accounting for over 72% of these.
Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death among young adults, making it imperative to explore effective prevention strategies. What can we do to drive this statistic down...exercise! Exercise as a Lifeline
Recent research has highlighted the powerful role that exercise can play in preventing suicide. Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to have a profound impact on your mental health, particularly in individuals battling depression. Speaking from personal experience i know the important role exercise plays in maintaining a good mental state.
Here are some of the key positive findings from studies conducted in the UK and beyond:
Improved Mood Regulation
When you engage in physical activity, your body releases chemicals called endorphins.
These chemicals reduce feelings of sadness and give us a feeling of satisfaction and happiness.
Overtime this increases overall well-being and helps us manage our emotions.
Stress Reduction
Exercise also serves as a powerful stress reliever, lowering cortisol levels in the body caused by chronic stress. High levels of cortisol are associated with stress and anxiety, so lowering these levels through exercise can lead to a more relaxed and positive mood.
Stress in everyday life is often un-avoidable but if you can find a routine that involves regular exercise you will reduce that stress and impact it has on how you feel.
Social Connection
Many forms of exercise, such as group classes or team sports, provide opportunities for social interaction.
Building connections with others can combat loneliness and isolation, which are common triggers for depression and low moods. Training with friends or in a group will most certainly boost your mood and also keep you accountable to your routine, this is key as consistency will help promote a good mental state long term.
Enhanced Self-Esteem
Achieving fitness goals can boost self-esteem and self-worth. For individuals battling depression or low mood this is key. Regular exercise can lead to positive physical changes, such as improved fitness, increased muscle, strength, weight loss, or better overall health. This can also boost your mental state making you feel better about your body and it's capabilities.
This works alongside setting and achieving exercise goals, whether they're related to endurance, strength, a specific fitness test or your just looking to get heathier. Completing a task gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Successfully meeting these goals can boost your self-confidence and sense of self-worth.
It's important to note that the effects of exercise on mood can vary from person to person, and the type, intensity, and duration of exercise can also play a role.
You may be reading this thinking - "I hate the gym" or "Running scares me" or "I don't enjoy lifting weights" and that's ok if you are. In order for exercise to work in improving your mental health it has to be (above everything else) enjoyable. For some people it will be the gym, others it will be; walking, playing sports, swimming, cycling etc. What you choose is up to you.
Additionally, consistency is key; long-term, regular exercise is more likely to have a sustained positive impact on mood. Therefore, incorporating exercise into your daily routine is the best strategy for promoting better mental health and a more positive mood.
It's hard starting but, you'll be glad you did.
Jack Duncan
12.09.23
Comments