The Black Dog Institute is unique in the field of mental health. It’s mission is to advance the better management of mood disorders in the community.
Around one in five Australians will suffer from a mood disorder in their lifetime. For some people it will be an isolated event but, for the majority, it will be an ongoing challenge throughout their life that will impact on their family, friends and work colleagues. The Institute receives some government funding for its work but also relies on the generous support of the community.
In 2008 the Institute studied the link between depression and exercise and made the following major findings:
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Over 90% of people surveyed with current symptoms of depression agreed that exercise “gives me more energy” and “makes me feel better if I am feeling depressed” |
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95% reported that exercise improved their mood |
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Even mild symptoms of depression were associated with reduced fitness, less confidence in exercising and added obstacles to exercise |
Other research has shown that:
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Regular exercise of moderate intensity can be an effective treatment by itself for mild to moderate depression |
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Two trials have found that 16 weeks of regular exercise is as effective as SSRI antidepressant medication in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in older adults who have been inactive |
At Run Coach we know our services can help to reduce the symptoms of depression. By entering and training for a running event, the participant will benefit from both the reduced symptoms of depression and increased energy brought about by training and the unbeatable sense of achievement they experience when they run across the finish line.
We aim to help promote an improved mood in people with depression and for that reason we have partnered with the Black Dog Institue. In 2009 we will train a Black Dog team for the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival and we have bigger and better plans for the years to come. Watch this space!
For more information on Black Dog Institute please click here.
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