When John’s world suddenly changed, he plummeted into depression and anxiety, and battled with feelings of zero self-worth. “As I approached retirement age, I had great difficulty with the concept of not being who I had been for the most of my life”
Video: John shares his story of overcoming anxiety and depression through group exercise with British Military Fitness.
Depression and anxiety can affect anyone at any given time and can make you feel very vulnerable, lost and alone. It's important to know that you're not alone and there is a way to overcome these feelings.
Evidence provided by Anxiety UK shows that there is a link between being physically active and enjoying positive mental wellbeing. Furthermore, evidence shows that being physically active can protect people against depression and anxiety as it causes chemical changes in the brain which can positively alter mood.
As John can attest to, it also brings about a sense of greater self-esteem, self-control and the ability to rise to a challenge.
There are copious studies (including this one by anxietycentre.com) to prove that time spent outdoors each day can reduce anxiety and improve resilience to further relapses. UQ CEED researcher Dr Danielle Shanahan said parks offered health benefits including reduced risks of developing heart disease, stress, anxiety and depression.
"If everyone visited their local parks for half an hour each week there would be seven per cent fewer cases of depression"
Isolation, loneliness, and simply not conversing with others can have a huge and profound negative effect on anxiety. Calm Clinic challenge the common belief that being alone will help you reduce your stress saying that actually all evidence shows this is completely wrong. We all need to "de-stress" once in a while. Spending some time by yourself can help give you a bit of a "recharge" after a long day. But there is a limit to how long that alone time is useful.
If you have people in your life that are a positive impact (generally people that are nice and positive people - we find them a lot at BMF!), then it makes sense to spend more time with them.
At British Military Fitness we encourage people of all fitness levels to come and try a class with us in the great outdoors. You will find likeminded people in other members and instructors, who will support you and encourage you to get the most out of the session.
The social aspect of BMF so often comes as a surprise to new members but it's is quoted as one of the most compelling reasons for BMF members staying with us year after year (after year, after year!)
You have nothing to lose and everything to gain - we even offer a free class to everyone, so sign up here and join us in the park!
If you need further support, the NHS provide a full list of Mental Health helplines here