30/06/2023
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As we draw a close to Men’s health month we enter into MENTAL ILLNESS AWARENESS MONTH in July.
The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and the risk of su***de is high in men.
Mental health experts are warning that the prevalence of mental health conditions could increase substantially over the coming months and years.
“We know that as little as one hour of exercise a week can help to protect against depression and that living an active lifestyle is one of the best ways to improve your mental well-being.”
THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE
Regular exercise can help to improve sleep patterns, help individuals to manage stress, reduce the risk of mental illness and improve mood. It is also vital for those who are living with mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, as it can help to manage the severity of symptoms and to reduce the risk of future incidences.
MEN AREN’T MOVING ENOUGH
Despite the health benefits of exercise, 29% of South African males aged 18 – 64 are inactive!
So how much is enough?
Every week, men should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity. That means activity or exercise that makes you puff (you should be able to talk, but not sing).
We urge men to increase their physical activity levels and make both their physical and mental health a priority.
WHERE TO GET THE RIGHT ADVICE
If you’re new to exercise, it can be tough to know how to start safely. This is especially true for those living with a chronic condition or those struggling with their mental health. We recommend seeking out an expert to help you to exercise safely for your individual needs.
Biokineticists are qualified health professionals who are trained to prescribe exercise for those living with long-term injuries, disability, chronic diseases, or mental health conditions.
To find a Biokineticist go to https://biokineticssa.org.za/
