Former American pro football player and now a leading bodybuilder, weightlifter, and fitness trainer Chris aka Dream has launched a campaign to help people understand the importance of exercise to improve mental health.
With more than 450 million people suffering from mental health issues, with 46.6 million in the USA and more than 16 million people in the UK, more needs to be done to help those suffering says Chris A.K.A. Dream.
“129 Americans take their own life each day due to mental health problems. In the UK, there were 6,507 deaths by suicide in 2019. Those figures are shocking and one life lost is one life too many. I want to make people aware of how fitness can help those suffering from mental health issues and stress,” explained Chris aka Dream
“Keeping fit can have a positive impact on depression and anxiety,” explained Chris A.K.A. Dream. “Exercising on a regular basis can help people sleep better and boost their overall mood. It does not matter how old you are, exercise can help with your mental health.”
According to studies, Chris A.K.A. Dream could be right. It was found in a recent study that exercise can help treat people with mild to moderate depression and can be as effective as antidepressants. The research which was conducted by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that if a person exercises for at least 15 minutes a day, can reduce the risk of depression by 26%.
When asked to explain how exercise can help those with mental health issues, Chris aka Dream explained: “Exercise is a powerful tool to help combat depression. It promotes different positive changes in the brain which includes neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being.”
Scientists have found that when exercising powerful chemicals are released into the brain which energizes a person and makes them feel better and recharged. Exercising also distracts the mind and allows it free time to break the negative cycle of thoughts that feeds depression.
Chris A.K.A. Dream wants to send out the message, exercising is not just about improving the body, it is also about improving the mind and helping people overcome stress and improving their well-being