Mental illness affects 1 in 5 Australians every year yet less than half of people experiencing symptoms of mental illness seek professional help.
The Member for Stuart, Dan van Holst Pellekaan MP, knows the electorate of Stuart is not immune which is why he is supporting the Black Dog Institute’s “Exercise Your Mood” campaign, which encourages people to improve their mental fitness this September.
“We all lead very busy lives, but finding time for exercise is so important to keeping your body and mind healthy,” he said.
“Exercise can be daunting, but every little bit counts – even an hour a week or 10 minutes a day can make a difference.”
The Exercise Your Mood campaign runs throughout September and this year’s theme is, “Take the First Step” which raises awareness and funds for the Black Dog Institute.
The Black Dog Institute is a medical research institute committed to translating scientific evidence into real-world solutions which improve the lives of people with mental illness. Exercise has been clinically proven to enhance wellbeing, reduce stress and can significantly reduce mild to moderate depression.
For information about Exercise Your Mood and for free exercise tips and resources visit www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
If you or someone you know is in crisis please call one of the following national helplines:
LIFELINE COUNSELLING SERVICE 13 11 14
SUICIDE CALL BACK SERVICE 1300 659 467 (cost of a local call)