The public are being encouraged to get active this Mental Health Awareness Week (13 – 19 May) and boost their mental health at the same time. To support the initiative, the Department of Health is hosting two free events at the NSC – Zumba and Boxercise – to raise awareness of the role physical activity has on people’s overall wellbeing.
The aim of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (an initiative by the Mental Health Foundation) is to change the way people view physical activity; shifting physical activity from a behaviour which people do because they ‘have to’ ‘should do’ or ‘ought to do’ for their health, to something which they do because they personally value its positive benefits to their wellbeing.
Many people with mental health problems use physical activity to make them feel better; this can include everyday activities such as walking and gardening. A survey by the charity Mind in 2011 found that 83% of people with mental health problems looked to exercise to help lift their mood or to reduce stress. ‘Start Active, Stay Active’ a UK Department of Health document reports there is approximately 20% to 30% lower risk for depression and dementia for adults participating in daily physical activity. However, the benefits of being active can help everyone’s mental health and wellbeing.
David Anderson MHK, Minister Health said: “The Department continues to pursue its ten year strategy to improve the health of the nation through encouraging and championing more healthy lifestyles - focussing on prevention over cure. There are many benefits of increasing physical activity, which have been shown to either prevent or improve a number of different health conditions.
“However, we also need to recognise the importance of physical activity for our general mental health and wellbeing. Physical activity can help maintain and improve mood, relaxation or as a release from daily stress. It can also promote a sense of achievement. Physical activity takes many forms and it is important to find a way to be active that you enjoy and fits your ability level.”
The two events at the NSC are:
• A Zumba Fitness session on Tuesday, 14 May 12.30 pm - 1.30 pm; and
• A Boxercise session on Thursday, 16 May 3.00 pm - 4.00 pm.
The sessions are fun and a great stress busting exercise. The sessions are free of charge and there’s no need to book, just turn up!
Julie Bennion, Specialist in Mental Health Promotion, said: “I’d encourage people of all abilities to come along to our Zumba or Boxercise session and just give it a go in a safe, non-judgmental environment – there’s no need to be self conscious or shy and there’s no need to have done these sort of activities before. The important thing is to give it a try – we’re really keen to help people realise the positive benefits exercise can have on mental health and wellbeing.”
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