Anxious Millennials Are Turning To Exercise For Relief. But How Effective Is It?
Millennials prioritise exercise more than any other generation in the UK – and almost a fifth admit they do it to alleviate anxiety.
That’s according to new research from YouGov, on behalf of lifestyle hospitality brand The Social Hub, which revealed almost one in five (19%) millennials work from home just to ensure they can fit workouts into their day.
Around one in 10 of us will be living with an anxiety disorder at any one time, according to Mental Health UK, which equates to roughly eight million people.
So, does exercise really help to alleviate anxiety?
In short: yes.
Studies have noted links between exercise and reduced anxiety levels.
One study looked into whether a 12-week exercise intervention could reduce anxiety symptoms in those with anxiety disorders and found “large improvements” in the groups that did exercise.
John J Ratey, an associate clinical professor at Harvard Medical School, said: “As a psychiatrist who studies the effects of exercise on the brain, I’ve not only seen the science, I’ve witnessed firsthand how physical activity affects my patients.
“Research shows aerobic exercise is especially helpful. A simple bike ride, dance class, or even a brisk walk can be a powerful tool for those suffering from chronic anxiety.
“Activities like these also help people who are feeling overly nervous and anxious about an upcoming test, a big presentation, or an important meeting.”
‘Fitness is now a non-negotiable’
The Social Hub offers support for members’ wellbeing through on-site fitness, mental health resources, and nutritious food options. Tasha Young, chief membership officer at The Social Hub, said: “We see how people’s needs are changing: fitness is now a non-negotiable and it happens every hour of the day.
“Rather than just being for physical health, it’s about mental health too. No one should have to compromise between work, exercising, and supporting their headspace. ”
How to start exercising to help your anxiety
Ratey advises the following steps:
- Choose something enjoyable so you will do it repeatedly, building resilience
- Work towards getting your heart rate up
- Work out with a friend or in a group to reap the added benefit of social support
- If possible, exercise in nature or green spaces, which further lowers stress and anxiety.
Help and support:
- Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393.
- Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill).
- CALM (the Campaign Against Living Miserably) offer a helpline open 5pm-midnight, 365 days a year, on 0800 58 58 58, and a webchat service.
- The Mix is a free support service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email help@themix.org.uk
- Rethink Mental Illness offers practical help through its advice line which can be reached on 0808 801 0525 (Monday to Friday 10am-4pm). More info can be found on rethink.org.