Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett is joining forces with the Black Dog Institute to help the Bundaberg and Burnett community improve their mental fitness this September, as part of ‘Exercise Your Mood’ month.
Launched on the first day of Spring, Black Dog’s theme this year is ‘Take the first step’, recognising that everyone – from the fighting fit to those experiencing mental illness – can benefit from exercise for better mental and physical wellbeing.
Mr Bennett will stand alongside Exercise Your Mood Ambassadors including fitness guru Michelle Bridges, Olympic basketball legend Lauren Jackson, Bulldogs player Moses Mbye, and former GWS Giants ruck Tom Downie in support of the campaign, which aims to raise vital funds and awareness for mental health research.
Mr Bennett said one in five Australians are affected by mental illness every year.
“Mental illness touches people from all ages and walks of life,” he said.
“Our mental health is just as important as our physical health and exercise is proven to have a positive impact on our wellbeing.
“I encourage people to get out in the community this month and take the first step towards better physical and mental wellbeing.
“Whether you go for a stroll around the block, walk your kids to school or go to the gym every single morning – it all helps!”
Black Dog Institute expert Associate Professor Samuel Harvey said while we all know the importance of keeping active, with the fast pace of modern life it can be difficult to find time to make exercise a priority.
“Yet research consistently shows the effectiveness of even moderate levels of physical activity for mental wellbeing, and can be part of a treatment plan for depression,” Mr Harvey said.
“We want to remind Australians that every little bit counts – even an hour a week can make a difference. You don’t need to run marathons or become an Olympic athlete to reap the benefits.”
For mental fitness tips and more information on how to join Exercise Your Mood this September, visit blackdoginstitute.org.au/exercise-your-mood
Exercise tips from the Black Dog Institute:
• Ease into it: If you have not been exercising for a while, build up gradually. Start with a 10–15-minute walk and increase to 30 minutes when you’re ready.
• Make a plan: Set short-term, realistic goals that fit in with your lifestyle.
• Reward yourself: when you achieve goals it’s important to celebrate — it helps to keep you motivated.
• Give yourself a break: If you need a rest or don’t stick to your plan, that’s okay. When you’re ready, simply start from where you left off.
• Exercise with others: Although socialising can be difficult when experiencing depression, asking a friend to join you can help to keep you motivated.
• Do what you enjoy: There is no need to join a gym if that’s not your thing. Find an activity you like, whether that’s swimming, yoga, walking the dog, bushwalking or riding a bike.
KEY FACTS
– Exercise has been clinically proven to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety[1]
– Physical activity boosts feel-good endorphins and mood-lifting serotonin
– Even small amounts of exercise can reap great wellbeing benefits, including reducing stress hormones, improving sleep, increasing a sense of control and distracting from worry
– Exercising with friends can help boost social connections and support
– One in five Australians will experience a mental illness each year[2], but more than half (54%) don’t seek help[3]
ENDS.
11 September 2017