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Being physically active and mentally well

12 October 2020 | Story Arina Engelbrecht | Photo Supplied

Being physically active plays a big role in preventing the development of mental-health problems and in improving the quality of life of people experiencing mental-health problems.

Treatment for depression

Physical activity can be an alternative treatment for depression. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with medication and/or psychological therapy. It promotes all kinds of changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns are formed that promote feelings of calm and well-being. It releases endorphins – powerful chemicals in the brain that energise your spirit and make you feel good.

Physical activity can be very effective in relieving stress. Research in adults has found that physically active individuals tend to have lower stress levels compared to individuals who are less active. It also leads to improved sleep. When a person sleeps better and feels more rested, overall quality of life improves. They cope better with daily life stressors.

Reduce Alzheimer's risk

Regular physical activity can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by up to 50%. It can also slow down further deterioration in those who have already started to develop cognitive problems. It stimulates the brain’s ability to maintain old connections as well as to make new ones.

A study asked people to rate their mood immediately after periods of physical activity (e.g. going for a walk/run, cycling, doing housework) and periods of inactivity (e.g. reading a book or watching television). Researchers found that participants felt more content, more awake, and calmer after being physically active compared to after periods of inactivity.

In conclusion, people who are physically active feel a sense of well-being, feel more energetic throughout the day, sleep better at night, have sharper memories, and feel more relaxed and positive about themselves and their lives.

“Being physically active not only changes your body, it changes your mind,
attitude, and your mood.” – Arina Engelbrecht

News Archive

UFS Qwaqwa Campus celebrates student excellence

2010-10-29

Dr Elias Malete, Campus Principal, with Ms Makakane

Christmas came early for the student community of the University of the Free State (Qwaqwa Campus). This after the Chairman of the Phuthaditjhaba-based Salemane Holdings, Mr Mei Salemane, announced a three-year sponsorship deal for the campus’ Student Affairs Excellence Awards during the prestigious awards ceremony held recently.

“We fully understand from experience that a lot of young people are from disadvantaged families, which hamper their development in most cases. We are not any different from them; that is why we vow to make a difference by pledging our support by sponsoring these awards for the next three years at a tune of R150 000 annually,” said Mr Mei whilst handing over cash prizes to the value of R28 000 to the best-performing students in the four faculties.

In response, the Director of Student Affairs, Mr Teboho Manchu, acknowledged the role that local businesses can play in supporting higher education.

“We wish to thank Salemane Holdings and other sponsors for giving recognition to young men and women for their achievements,” concluded Manchu.

Awards issued on the day covered a wide range that included academic performance as well as for sporting and cultural excellence.

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