Getting Physical with Your Mental Health
Research has documented the benefits of exercise in reducing anxiety and depression, raising self-esteeem and improving mood. To Oscar Morgan, that makes perfect sense. “Mental wellness is about body and mind,” says Morgan, chief operating officer to the National Mental Health Association (NMHA). “We need to take care of our bodies to have a healthy mind, and we need to take care of our mind to have a healthy body. When we exercise, it stimulates the natural hormonal systems, which increases blood to our vessels and increases oxygen, and it makes us feel good. That, in turn, has an effect on our well-being, mentally and physically.”
According to the NMHA, two-thirds of the 44 million Americans who have been diagnosed with a mental illness are not receiving treatment. The NMHA sponsors Mental Health Month each May to raise awareness about mental illness.
Besides recognizing signs of mental illness and seeking treatment, Morgan points out keys to maintaining good mental health. “People can take care of their mental health through exercise, good diet, adhering to the medicine regime if appropriate, as well as therapy prescribed by their mental-health practitioner,” he says.
