It’s no secret that some things go together beautifully – like cake and coffee or quinoa and chickpeas. But did you know that your mental health and physical health are closely tied? In fact, these two aspects of health are linked in a two-way relationship.
Let’s explore the profound connection between mental health and wellbeing and physical wellbeing, along with some steps you can take to enhance both.
Why is mental health important?
Mental health is an essential part of overall wellbeing. Along with spiritual, physical and emotional health, being mentally healthy allows you to live authentically and fulfill your potential. Good mental health and wellbeing enable you to:
- manage better with the stresses of everyday life
- realise your abilities
- work productively and contribute to your community.
Positive mental wellness is especially important for young people because it helps them form healthy relationships, learn, communicate effectively, and adjust to change as they progress into adulthood.
Exercise: A Catalyst for Physical and Mental Resilience
Exercise is good for your body, but it can also provide a significant boost to your mental health. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, meaning you’ll get the feel-good effects of these natural chemicals your body produces to help alleviate pain and stress.
Regular physical activity can help to:
- reduce stress and lift your mood
- improve your memory and focus
- reduce mental health symptoms associated with conditions such as depression and anxiety
- support recovery from mental health issues
- enhance your sleep (more about why sleep matters for mental health below).
For children, adolescents and young adults, engaging in physical activity is a potent tool for managing the challenges that can come with this phase of life. Studies indicate that in children and adolescents, regular exercise can have a wide range of benefits, including reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, stronger academic performance, healthier interpersonal relationships, enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence, and better mental health.
Quality Sleep: A Powerful Force for Mental and Physical Wellbeing
Adequate sleep is a cornerstone of good health. As you sleep, your mind and body rest, repair, and find equilibrium.
Quality sleep promotes your mental health and wellbeing by helping you to:
- feel rested and alert – after a good sleep, you wake feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
- cope with stress – sleep helps to regulate stress hormones, helping you deal better with the pressures of daily life.
- concentrate and remember – quality sleep allows you to focus and tune out distractions better. Sleep is also vital for consolidating memories, helping to support learning.
Improving the quality of your sleep may also help to prevent relapses if you have mental health concerns. In children and young people, quality sleep is crucial for good mental health. Studies have shown that improving sleeping problems in kids, and young adults who report good sleep quality, have lower levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
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