“Exercise Your Mood Week is a great initiative to highlight the benefits of exercise in combating depression,’’ Ambassador for the Black Dog Institute and Calwell MP Maria Vamvakinou said.“I encourage Calwell residents to participate in Exercise Your Mood Week campaign, being held across Australia from 11 to 19 September to underline the importance of exercise for maintaining good mental health.”
The week long campaign will support the work of the Institute which is a not-for-profit, educational, research, clinical and community-orientated facility which offers specialist expertise in depression and bipolar disorder.
Ms Vamvakinou said that, with one in five Australians suffering from a mood disorder, it is important that people of all ages participate in the campaign.
“There are many community events planned for the week, as well as activities for individuals and groups.”
Professor Gordon Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, said research had shown the benefits of exercise for people with mood disorders.
“Exercise-based interventions can significantly reduce depression compared to no treatment. For example, in older adults, research clearly shows that 16 weeks of regular exercise can be as effective as an antidepressant, although each influence mood in different ways,” Mr Parker said.
The mood benefits from exercise include the release of endorphins (described as the body’s natural ‘feel good’ chemicals), interruption of the ‘inactivity cycle’ of depression, distraction from worrying, changes in the brain’s chemistry, reduction in the levels of stress hormones, improved sleep, fitness and energy, and an increased sense of control while promoting social interaction.
To find out more about the campaign and how you can be involved, visit the Black Dog Institute website, www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
Media contact: Marianthi Kypuros on (03) 9309 3655
