ESSA highlights the importance of movement for men’s mental health

During Men’s Health Week, 15th to 21st June 2020, Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) is again highlighting the importance of exercise and physical activity for men’s mental health.

Despite the health benefits of exercise, only 17% of males aged 18 – 64 meet the national Physical Activity Guidelines. ESSA is urging Aussie men that now is the time to work together to increase their physical activity levels and make both their physical and mental health a priority.

Currently in Australia, one in eight men will experience depression, one in five will experience anxiety and six men a day will die by suicide. With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to affect the day-to-day lives of so many Australians, mental health experts are warning that the prevalence of these mental health conditions could increase substantially over the coming months and years.

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.

ESSA board member and mental health researcher, Simon Rosenbaum notes that with COVID-19 putting extra strain on the mental health of Australian men, it’s never been more important for them to stay active.

Rosenbaum adds “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.

“We can all work together to help improve the men’s mental health.

Rosenbaum suggests that if Australian men turn to friends, family and the local community for support, and work with an accredited exercise professional, they have the ability to live a healthier and more active lifestyle, regardless of their age, fitness level or health status.

ESSA’s “Exercise Right” website offers a range of resources to help get men of all ages and fitness levels active, including free home exercise video, factsheets and expert tips for getting started.

ESSA also offers a free, downloadable eBook to help education Australians about the vital link between exercise and mental health.