Mental health BALANCE
Realising potential Mental health Matters
Whether you’re a run coach or a runner, mental health is key. Look after yourself or those you train by understanding more about how mental and physical health are intrinsically linked, and learn how exercise can positively impact wellbeing
Words Tina Chantrey
How do you approach your mental wellbeing? You may think of options like therapy or medication when considering ways to manage mental health issues but research shows that ecotherapy - activities that take place in nature - can positively impact mental health too.
“The University of Essex carried out research for Mind, which found that 94 per cent of people who took part in outdoor exercise activities said that they had benefited their mental health,” says Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical Activity for Mind. “Ecotherapy can be as effective as antidepressants in treating mild to moderate depression, and being in a relaxing outside space can provide a distraction from negative or intrusive thoughts, and allow us to switch off from everyday pressures and relieve stress.”
A varied landscape
The World Health Organisation defines mental health as a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to her or his community.