Boost your mental health by moving more

Today marks the launch of Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, the UK’s national week to raise awareness of mental health.

The week, which is hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, runs from 13-19 May 2024. The week aims to encourage people find moments for movement to help improve their mental health.

One of the best things we can do for our mental health and wellbeing is to be active. Our bodies release feel-good hormones when we are active that can reduce anxiety and stress, and help us sleep better.

Priya George, Clinical Lead for Mental Health at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “Poor mental health can affect all of us at some point in our lives. Therefore, it’s really important for us to look after our mental wellbeing and others around us too including family, friends and colleagues.

“We know that movement and exercise is important for both mental and physical health. We encourage everyone to find moments to move each day to help boost their mood and activity levels.”

Any amount of physical activity is better than none. Finding everyday moments to increase activity levels such as when waiting for the kettle to boil, can be used as an opportunity for movement. Use spare moments to dance to your favourite song, stretch, or walk to the next bus stop. Each movement will benefit people physically and mentally.

More support and advice can be found at: Be active for your mental health - Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)