We are talking about mental health, not mental illness.  Mental health refers to people's emotional and psychological states. For example, someone under a lot of stress might show signs of poor mental health without having a mental illness, and if not addressed, it could lead to mental illness.

There are a multitude of reasons for poor mental health and it is important, as a trainer, that the focus is placed on identifying the signs.  The last thing we want to do is to make things worse.

Depression is a mood disorder that can cause regular sadness and general loss of motivation and interest in things they used to enjoy.

The depressive symptoms can include:
Anxiety
Irritability
Insomnia
Trouble Focusing
Unexplained problems like backaches and headaches

Suffering from mild and moderate depression can sometimes be confused with laziness or a lack of motivation. Being accused of these things can sometimes makes the depression worse, and lead to severe depression or major depressive disorder.

Anxiety comes in many forms, general anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Anxiety attacks can hit without warning.

Symptoms include:
Extreme feelings of nervousness and tension
Faster than normal heart rate before exercising

Inability to control worry

Avoidance of triggers

Also note that anxiety and depression tend to go hand-in-hand.

 How Exercise Benefits Personal Development and Mental Health

Although working out will not suddenly fix a condition, it will go a long way toward a more positive trend. Not to mention the cognitive function benefits from exercise, the brain becomes more resilient emotionally.

Exercise of any kind can have a positive impact, regardless of fitness level.  Here are a few of  the benefits:

Trains You to Face Your Inner Critic
Reduces Anxiety
Helps Cope with Stress
Releases Endorphins
Improves Self-Esteem and Body Image

 Is the Foundation of Recovery

Gives a Better Night's Sleep
Enhances Your Memory
Encourages Success
Provides Consistent Growth

Anxiety and Depression can pause your life even if you are eating right, drinking plenty of water, and getting proper rest, will not keep you from experiencing these conditions. Remember to give yourself some grace and continue to persevere.

Remember to treat people the way you want to be treated and never give up!!!

For more information on ways fitness can help overcome these conditions contact me at info@thecocoaexpressshow.com