Depression and anxiety

[Antifa Hibs]

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That's a really interesting article.

I was listening to a podcast recently and they mentioned that GPs in England have recently started to 'prescribe' Parkrun to people with both physical and mental illnesses.

Whilst obviously it's not for everyone and certainly not for people at an acute stage of illness it seems a great idea for people maybe looking for a way to get outside, get fit and interact with people. The non competitive nature and general friendliness of Parkrun seems as good a place as any to suggest to people.

Whilst I would 100% argue that traditional medicines and therapies have their place it is good to see a recognition of the benefits of a more holistic approach as well.

I've listened to something similar. Think it was Feel Better Live More podcast by Dr Chatterjee. I think the community aspect of Parkrun was just as good for you as the exercise. Even if you can't run volunteering by handing out oranges or doing registration and going for a coffee afterwards with people is meant to be just as beneficial as running. Despite holding a device in our pockets 99% of the day that connects us to the whole world in seconds - we are being more and more isolated as a race and this is having a massive affect on mental health. Something to do with our brains are still programmed back to the stone age were we lived in tribes and small close-knitted communities but these days despite technology and living in huge cities, find ourselves to be pretty isolated. Fascinating stuff these studies have shown (maybe not so much if you're suffering I guess).

Dr Chatterjee and Geoff Lloyd & Ed Miliband have podcasts on mental health with guests - well worth a listen.

Regarding excerise and getting outdoors I find it a brilliant way to clear the head and as a 9-5 desk jocky (well really half 8 to half 5) find it very beneficial. A 3 mile walk up and down the canal or round arthur seat etc is barry during the summer months - not so much the winter months however!

Stick in everyone.