Mental Health Awareness Week 2024
From the 13th to 19th of May, we will observe Mental Health awareness week. With this year’s topic centred around the theme of “Movement: Moving more for our mental health”, our interns Phil & Ryan took this opportunity to explore the impact of mental health on the population globally, and the beneficial effects that movement can have in improving mental wellbeing.
Mental health is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “ 1.This definition highlights the far-reaching consequences that mental health can have on our daily lives if not addressed properly. It extends beyond emotional distress, as it is often interlaced with physical health and . Mental health further encompasses a spectrum of conditions, with the most common being depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder2. On the physical level, mental health disorders can increase the risk of developing chronic conditions; such as .
The latest trends based on the Global Burden of Disease Study from 2021 indicate a steady rise in the number of individuals affected by depressive and anxiety disorders since 2010. Notably, there has been a significant relative increase in age-standardised (YLDs) of 16.4% and 16.7% respectively, making both disorders responsible for one of the largest increases in (DALYs) rates among all measured diseases4. The collective burden of depressive and anxiety disorders now exceeds 10% of the total disease burden globally, with females being disproportionately affected, particularly in age groups spanning from 15-19 and 60-64 years4,5. Moreover, besides poor physical health factors such as chronic conditions, poor mental well-being can be caused by traumatic experiences, drug abuse, unfavourable socioeconomic status and environmental conditions as well as personality traits. Mental health disorders are often overlooked and left undiagnosed, with only a low proportion of individuals receiving adequate treatment6. Hence, public health professionals, medical professionals, and politicians should focus on the prevention and promotion of mental health, encouraging the adoption of actions positively contributing to our mental well-being such as physical activity7.
The Importance of Physical Activity for Mental Health
Besides its obvious physical health benefits, being active has also been hailed for its positive effects on mental health. In fact, exercise is often recommended as a therapy for mental health disorders8. In an era dominated by sedentary lifestyles, physical activity becomes more important than ever. Its positive effects extend beyond improving mood, motivation, self-esteem and boosting energy levels; exercise is also a powerful ally to combat stress, thereby mitigating the risk of chronic physical and mental conditions and premature mortatily9,10.
At a physiological level, physical activity triggers the production of neuromodulators including endogenous opioids such as . These biochemical agents, acting as our body’s natural mood regulators, are not only capable of modulating pain, but also generate a sense of reward and well-being. Such ‘feel-good’ molecules are therefore an important factor contributing towards the improvement of our mental wellbeing11. Physical activity further helps improve concentration and sleep quality, which are two pivotal elements in ensuring mental resilience. It consequently contributes to a reduction in anxiety and depression levels, as well as improved cognitive function and reduced risk of cognitive decline12,13. Incorporating physical activity on a regular basis is therefore crucial to maintaining a healthy mind and body, while fostering mental resilience.
Strategies for Incorporating Movement into Daily Life
The NHS recommends to incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate to low-intensity exercise into our weekly routines. This encompasses structured workouts, such as running or playing tennis, as well as everyday activities like going for a walk, commuting to work, or carrying bags when returning from grocery shopping. Achieving physical activity goals does not need to be a rigorous exercise regimen, it is about incorporating movement into our daily lives. Although, performing higher-intensity activities, such as running, biking, swimming, or lifting weights, offers additional fitness benefits14, less intense activities also contribute to improved physical health, helping with flexibility, balance, and muscle strength alongside the previously described positive effects on mental health15.
Simple adjustments to our routines can yield significant results. Effective ways of incorporating movement in our daily lives include: opting for instead of sitting whenever possible, choosing more active modes of transportation such as walking or biking instead of driving, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. For car users, even parking the vehicle further away from the destination will help increase the number of daily steps and activity16. Better yet, connecting with nature when exercising by spending time in parks and forests can further amplify the mental health benefits of physical activity17.
In addition, incorporating active breaks after prolonged periods of sitting not only breaks up sedentary behaviour but also enhances clarity of thought and productivity18. Engaging in an enjoyable sports activity yields further benefits because it ensures regularity and adherence without losing motivation. Indeed, people are more likely to stick to an activity when it is more enjoyable, while consistency is considered more important than the volume of activity17. Regular exercise thereby facilitates the frequent release of the beneficial endogenous opioids and endocannabinoids. Most importantly, setting realistic targets for physical activity is paramount to ensuring the sustainability of the exercising habit, which in turn will nurture self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment through the progressive attainment of objectives. For good measure, involving friends and family can further bolster commitment to regular physical activity, as social support acts as a motivation booster. For novices, developing a structured exercise plan is an additional helpful tool to get started and adopt a consistent workout routine. Lastly, wearable fitness trackers may help reinforce exercise commitments, potentially improving physical activity levels and overall wellbeing19.
It is important to remember that even the smallest amounts of activity yield benefits, underscoring the importance of adopting an active lifestyle.
Mental Health Challenges Faced by Young People
Young people are among the most affected individuals, with statistics showing a prevalence of 18% and 22% for mental disorders among children aged 7-16 and 17-24 respectively20. Indeed, they face several mental health challenges, significantly impacting their well-being, ranging from anxiety and stress to loneliness and panic attacks. The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a pivotal period marked by profound physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes. During this time, individuals engage in identity formation, exploring values, beliefs, and aspirations. Alongside this, they grapple with significant life decisions and navigate complex interpersonal relationships.
Academic pressure further represents a significant stress factor for young people21. A systematic review targeting studies of students worldwide, from primary school (students aged 5-11) through (students aged 16-18), aimed to understand the relationship between academic pressure —particularly during periods nearing examinations—, and mental health outcomes. It revealed, a significant positive relationship between academic pressure or proximity to exams and the manifestation of mental health issues among students was demonstrated in 48 out of the 52 studies21. These mental health issues encompassed a spectrum of conditions including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, and stress-related disorders. The findings emphasised the urgency for interventions and support mechanisms within educational settings to mitigate the adverse effects of academic pressure on mental health.
Numerous challenges for the mental health of young people have also been associated with the rise of social media. Indeed, excessive social media use has been consistently linked with negative psychological outcomes such as loneliness, feelings of inadequacy, and anxiety22. This connection arises from several factors, including the tendency for users to compare their lives unfavourably to the idealised images others present. Moreover, constant exposure to carefully curated content can create unrealistic expectations and dissatisfaction with one’s own life. Cyberbullying is similarly a significant concern, with approximately 1 in 5 children aged 10 to 15 having experienced cyberbullying in the past year. This highlights the urgent need for interventions and digital literacy programmes to address these harmful effects2.
To tackle these pressing challenges, a proactive stance is imperative in supporting young individuals’ mental health. Establishing a nurturing environment where they feel comfortable seeking assistance fosters open dialogues about mental health issues and provides access to necessary resources. Hence, raising awareness about these issues and fostering collaborative efforts are essential in addressing the mental health needs of our youth.
Global Initiatives Addressing Mental Health
In response to the escalating mental health crisis, various impactful global initiatives have emerged, with leading organisations such as the WHO and advocacy groups like Mental Health America conducting campaigns aimed at raising awareness, combating stigma, and advocating for improved mental health services worldwide.
Initiatives like the Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020 have led to tangible results through targeted interventions and comprehensive strategies. This plan aimed to improve mental health services globally and reduce the burden of mental health disorders. It stressed the importance of mental health in achieving universal health coverage (UN SDG 3.8), emphasising on prevention and adopting a life-course approach. The plan outlined four main objectives: enhancing leadership and governance in mental health, ensuring comprehensive care in community settings, implementing prevention strategies, and strengthening information systems and research. These efforts have yielded significant improvements, as illustrated by an increase in spending on the NHS’ mental health services totalling £12 billion for the 2021-2022 period, with focus on community-based and youth services23. During the period from 2016-17 to 2021-22, the number of people accessing NHS mental health services increased from 3.6 million to 4.5 million24.
Mental Health America’s “B4Stage4″ initiative has made similarly significant strides by emphasising the importance of early detection and intervention for mental health issues. This approach focuses on identifying and addressing mental health concerns before they escalate to severe stages. By advocating proactive measures to prevent crises and provide timely support, this initiative has contributed to a shift towards a more preventative approach to mental health care.
Moreover, international collaborations and partnerships have played a pivotal role in advancing mental health advocacy and service delivery. The Global Mental Health Summit and the Lancet Commission on Global Mental Health and Sustainable Development have served as platforms for experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and drive collective action. Through these initiatives, progress has been made in promoting mental health equity and ensuring equitable access to high-quality mental health care for individuals worldwide. Countries like the Netherlands, have been instrumental in providing technical expertise and financial support to bolster mental health initiatives in low-resource settings, contributing to improved mental health outcomes on a global scale24. Represented by organisations like the Netherlands Institute for Global Health and Development, the Netherlands developed and piloted a Minimum Service Package (MSP) in Colombia, Iraq, Nigeria and South Sudan. This initiative aimed to alleviate suffering and improve mental health and psychosocial well-being among adults, children, and young people affected by humanitarian crises24.
The progress made in addressing the global mental health crisis cannot halt. It is crucial to invest in research for understanding mental health disorders and creating tailored interventions. Collaboration among governments, NGOs, healthcare providers, and communities will drive sustainable change and will keep mental health a global priority.
Mental Health Awareness Week invites reflection on the significance of mental wellbeing, particularly among young people who grapple with several challenges. It promotes the appreciation of various contributing factors to mental well-being at various stages of life as well as among genders. There is a large interplay between mental health and physical activity, reminding us of the importance of addressing mental health from a holistic perspective.
Addressing mental health challenges among young people requires a multifaceted approach that involves education, support, and advocacy. By raising awareness about the prevalence of mental health issues and promoting open dialogue, we can reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. Global initiatives play a vital role in advancing mental health policies and services. With additional attention and funding directed towards the causes of mental ill-health, we can create a world where mental well-being is prioritised, and everyone has the support they need to thrive.
Written by: Philippe Weissenberg Anaboli & Ryan Mak
Reviewed by: Rachel Barker, Celine Tabche, Ela Augustyniak, & Dr Elizabeth Dubois
Mental Health Awareness Week Resources
Mental health educational resources that individuals can access are provided by organisations such as the NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/) and the WHO (https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health).
Helplines and local mental health services are also crucial for individuals seeking immediate support. Some reliable helplines include Talk to Samaritans (116 123), Anxiety UK (03444 775 774), Rethink Mental Illness (0300 5000 927), and Mind (0300 123 3393).
References
- WHO. Mental health. https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_1 (2024).
- NICE. Common mental health problems | Information for the public | Common mental health problems: identification and pathways to care | Guidance . (2024).
- CDC. About Mental Health. https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm (2024).
- Ferrari, A. J. et al. Global incidence, prevalence, years lived with disability (YLDs), disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and healthy life expectancy (HALE) for 371 diseases and injuries in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. The Lancet 0, (2024).
- NHS. Causes – Depression in adults. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/causes/.
- Ferrari, A. Global, regional, and national burden of 12 mental disorders in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2019: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Lancet Psychiatry 9, 137–150 (2022).
- NHS. 5 steps to mental wellbeing – NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/ (2024).
- Mental Health Foundation. How to look after your mental health using exercise | Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/how-look-after-your-mental-health-using-exercise (2024).
- CDC. Benefits of Physical Activity. https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm (2024).
- Anderson, E. & Durstine, J. L. Physical activity, exercise, and chronic diseases: A brief review. Sports Medicine and Health Science 1, 3–10 (2019).
- Basso, J. C. & Suzuki, W. A. The Effects of Acute Exercise on Mood, Cognition, Neurophysiology, and Neurochemical Pathways: A Review. Brain Plasticity 2, 127 (2017).
- Mental Health Foundation. Physical activity and mental health. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/physical-activity-and-mental-health (2024).
- Kennedy, G., Hardman, R. J., MacPherson, H., Scholey, A. B. & Pipingas, A. How Does Exercise Reduce the Rate of Age-Associated Cognitive Decline? A Review of Potential Mechanisms. J Alzheimers Dis 55, 1–18 (2017).
- Nayor, M. et al. Physical activity and fitness in the community: the Framingham Heart Study. Eur Heart J 42, 4565–4575 (2021).
- Tse, A. C. Y., Wong, T. W. L. & Lee, P. H. Effect of Low-intensity Exercise on Physical and Cognitive Health in Older Adults: a Systematic Review. Sports Med Open 1, (2015).
- NHS. How to be more active – Better Health. https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/how-to-be-more-active/ (2024).
- NHS. Be active for your mental health – Every Mind Matters. https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/be-active-for-your-mental-health/ (2024).
- Pietilä, M. The Effect of active breaks for wellbeing at work. (2022) doi:10.5.2022.
- Jin, D., Halvari, H., Maehle, N. & Olafsen, A. H. Self-tracking behaviour in physical activity: a systematic review of drivers and outcomes of fitness tracking. Behaviour & Information Technology 41, 242–261 (2022).
- NHS England. Mental Health of Children and Young People in England 2022 – wave 3 follow up to the 2017 survey . https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mental-health-of-children-and-young-people-in-england/2022-follow-up-to-the-2017-survey (2022).
- Steare, T., Gutiérrez Muñoz, C., Sullivan, A. & Lewis, G. The association between academic pressure and adolescent mental health problems: A systematic review. J Affect Disord 339, 302–317 (2023).
- Office for National Statistics. Bullying and online experiences among children in England and Wales . https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/bullyingandonlineexperiencesamongchildreninenglandandwales/yearendingmarch2023.
- National Audit Office. Progress in Improving Mental Health Services in England . https://www.nao.org.uk/press-releases/progress-in-improving-mental-health-services-in-england/ (2023).
- Bolton, P. et al. Expanding mental health services in low- and middle-income countries: A task-shifting framework for delivery of comprehensive, collaborative, and community-based care. Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health 10, e16 (2023).