Wednesday 10 October is World Mental Health Day, a day that aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and support people in managing symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress.
Mental health issues affect a large number of people – data from the World Federation for Mental Health suggests that one in four people will experience poor mental health in their life.
And while there are many different reasons people can experience poor mental health, if you exercise regularly, it can reduce your stress and symptoms of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, and help with recovery from mental health issues.
Earlier this year, Bicycle Network held a men’s health night that included discussion with bike riders about how riding helps their health.
One of the speakers was endurance rider Jesse Carlson who spoke about how riding long distances and setting goals helps him with mental stability.
Jesse’s story is inspiring, however you don’t have to ride hundreds of kilometres a day to benefit.
A simple ride on the local bike path in the sun or swapping the car or train trip to work for a pedal can help maintain and improve mental health.
And a 2017 study of more than 33,000 people also found that just one hour of exercise a week could be enough to reap mental health benefits.
If you think that you or someone you know might benefit from bike riding there is no time better time than now to get pedalling.
The weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer – what are you waiting for?
For more information, resources or mental health support, please visit:
Click here to see more videos from Bicycle Network's Men's Health Night
Become our friend
Find out more about Bicycle Network and support us in making it easier for people to ride bikes.