Youth mental health is a growing concern in today's society
Many teenagers are suffering from depression and anxiety, and it can be difficult to know how to help them. I utilise the power of movement in my practice and feel that it gives my clients the best opportunity to succeed, and me the best opportunity to connect. I also feel that the benefits of behavioural activation improve mental fitness which can reduce anxiety and depression.
The link between movement and mental health in young people
It's no secret that exercise has a myriad of physical benefits, but it's also a powerful tool for improving mental health, and mental fitness particularly in young people.Physical activity is known to release endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in the brain that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Additionally, movement can activate positive behaviours and reduce negative thoughts in a process called behavioural activation. When we engage in physical activity, we are more likely to engage in other positive behaviours such as socializing, eating well, and getting enough sleep, which can further improve mental fitness.
I have had so many teenagers come to a Counselling session and then just sit there, playing the silent game. In my experience walking gets them talking, actually any movement will work whether it is walking, shooting hoops, kicking a footy, putting, bouncing a tennis ball, anything. This can also address the power dynamic that exists between the Counsellor and the client. No fancy leather couch or cardigan.
Incorporating movement into daily routines for young people can be as simple as going for a walk before breakfast, after dinner, anything that gets them outside soaking up that vital vitamin D and getting the blood flowing. These activities don't need to be strenuous to be effective in improving mental health.
What is behavioural activation?
Behavioural activation is a therapeutic technique that involves encouraging people to engage in activities that promote positive behaviours and thoughts, which can help reduce negative feelings associated with depression and anxiety. For young people struggling with mental health issues, behavioural activation can be a powerful tool to help them learn new skills and overcome challenges.
While medications are often used to treat mental health issues in young people, many parents and professionals are exploring alternatives to medicating anxiety, ADHD, and depression. Behavioural activation is one such alternative that has been shown to be effective. It involves developing an individualised plan that encourages regular physical activity, socialising with friends and goal setting.
With consistent effort and support, young people can experience the benefits of behavioural activation and lead healthier, happier lives.
Potential barriers to getting young people moving and how to overcome them
When I was young I went to Counselling and I hated it. I was taken to a stuffy office with a scary expert and I did not connect or engage with multiple Counsellors. Whilst you cannot connect with everyone, I feel that walking and talking (behavioural activation) is the best approach for connecting with young people, engaging them in the therapeutic process and modelling behaviour that is healthy and beneficial to mental fitness.
Despite the benefits of movement for mental health, there can be some challenges in getting young people to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. One common barrier is a lack of motivation or interest in physical activity. To overcome this, having a Counsellor who offers an outreach service (like me) who can come to your home and start with walking and talking session can get the ball rolling.
Another barrier can be physical limitations or health concerns that make it difficult for a young person to engage in certain types of activity. In these cases, it may be necessary to work with a healthcare professional to find alternatives that are safe and appropriate for the young person's needs.
A third barrier can be the misconception that movement alone is not enough to address mental health issues like depression and anxiety. While it is true that movement is just one aspect of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan, research has shown that alternatives to medicating depression such as exercise and physical activity can be highly effective in reducing symptoms and improving overall mental wellbeing. It's important to emphasise the power of movement as a tool for improving mental health and to integrate it as a key aspect of any treatment plan for young people struggling with these issues.
Tips for incorporating movement into daily routines for young people
Encourage physical activity: Make exercise or physical activity a regular part of your teenager’s daily routine, do it with them, it is good for you too.
Find fun alternatives to screen time, start small and build them with rewarding effort rather than outcome.
Set goals and set the bar as low as you can to build momentum and to give you the opportunity to celebrate the small wins with them.
Mindfulness is great however, young people are so busy and stimulated with school and after school activities, sometimes taking space and time can allow us the opportunity to process, plan and free think.
Seek out youth counselling: If your teenager is struggling with depression, anxiety or ADHD, seek out alternative methods to medication.
Youth counselling and therapy can provide a range of effective strategies and tools to help improve mental health without the use of medication. It is important to note that medication can be effective and should be monitored by a medical professional.
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