October marks the start of Mental Health Month, and with spring in full swing, Black Dog Institute is calling on Australians to put One Foot Forward for better mental health.
As the weather warms and the days grow longer, many people find it easier to get outside and get moving, making October an ideal time to build habits that support wellbeing.
The national challenge invites people to walk, run or move in whatever way fits their routine, and to raise funds for the mental health research that supports the 1 in 5 Australians who experience mental illness each year.
It doesn’t take a marathon. For many people, a walk before, during or after the working day is one of the simplest ways to reset and feel better. That might mean making part of the commute active, or stepping away from the desk for a short walk at lunch.
Professor Sam Harvey, Chief Scientist and Executive Director at Black Dog Institute, says the evidence for movement is clear.
“Engaging in exercise has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of depression, including major depressive disorder, with studies finding that walking for an hour a day can significantly reduce the risk of major depression,” Professor Harvey says.
Tamara Aiken, One Foot Forward Campaign Manager at Black Dog Institute, says while the challenge starts with movement, for many participants it becomes something much more meaningful.
“At Black Dog Institute, we know how much social connection matters for mental health. Whether you take part on your own, with friends, family or colleagues, One Foot Forward brings people together behind a shared cause.”
The challenge runs throughout October during Mental Health Month, and registrations are still open. However, people choose to move, every step helps fund better mental health research across the country. Register now at onefootforward.org.au.