Improving Mental Health One Step at a Time
At least one in five Canadians suffers from mental health problems. In fact, it has been predicted that within the next 10 years, the incidence of mental health problems will surpass that of all chronic diseases among Canadians.
The secret to reducing these numbers could be as simple as getting more Canadians off the couch and participating in physical activity. Even though physical activity is a key factor in both mental and physical health, most of us are not nearly active enough to reap the benefits.
Dr. Catherine Sabiston, Canada Research Chair in Physical Activity and Mental Health, believes that studying the link between physical and mental health may lead to solutions to help reduce the burden of mental health issues on Canadians, as well as the accompanying strain on the public health care system. She and her research team are identifying important factors related to participation in physical activity. They are also developing programs and implementing strategies for sustainable physical activity among Canadians of all ages.
Sabiston’s research will help combat the mental health crisis facing Canada by providing scientific evidence that supports how physical activity is linked to, and can help ease, mental health problems.