Mental Health Awareness Week: 7 ways to stay active during your work day for better mental health

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week stresses how physical movement can have a positive impact on one’s mental health.

According to the charity Mind, one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. The most common mental health issues that people encounter are General Anxiety Disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

For the LGBTQ+ community in particular, the data paints a bleaker picture, with research from Stonewall revealing that over half of LGBTQ+ people have experienced depression, and three in five have dealt with anxiety. One in eight LGBTQ+ young people aged 18 to 24 attempted to take their own life, and nearly half of all trans people have contemplated suicide.

While the overwhelmed and under-staffed NHS has seen mental health referrals soar to five million, up 33 per cent from 2019, and the high costs of private mental health care, it’s safe to assume that many dealing with mental health issues are forced to confront their struggles on their own.

Physical activity can improve mental health

One way to improve mental health and well-being is through physical activity. According to the Mental Health Foundation, as little as 15 minutes of physical activity can positively impact mental health. Further research showed that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of depression by 30 per cent, yet over one-third of people in the UK don’t meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to let physical activity fall by the wayside, especially during the workday. Physical activity doesn’t have to be intense gym sessions or running marathons, little routines can be incorporated into the workday to promote physical activity.

Here are a handful of simple yet effective ways to stay active during your workday, promoting not only physical health but also enhancing your mental well-being.

Opt for active commuting

If feasible, consider incorporating active transportation into your daily commute. Whether it’s walking, biking, or even skating to work, choosing an active mode of transportation adds physical activity to your day but also helps reduce stress levels by allowing you to connect with your surroundings and enjoy some fresh air before diving into your work.