Developing a healthy relationship with physical activity
We know physical activity can be an amazing way to support mental health. But it isn’t helpful for everyone all the time. Anyone can develop an unhealthy relationship with physical activity. But this may be more likely if you have certain types of mental health problems.
We've worked with people with lived experience of mental health problems. And the mental health professionals who have supported them. Together we've produced resources to support healthy relationships with physical activity.
Video – healthy relationship with physical activity
Catherine, George, Debbie and Paula share when physical activity may become unhealthy. They talk about how to spot signs, symptoms and signpost to support.
Signs of an unhealthy relationship with physical activity
Physical activity is personal, so experiences of an unhealthy relationship may differ. As a result, people may showcase different signs to the ones listed here.
- Changes in personality, appearance or how often someone exercises
- Feeling guilty or anxious that they’re not doing enough exercise
- Exercising in secret
- Regular injuries – these can be a sign of over-exercising
- Making excuses to be active
- Appearing constantly tired
- Exercising even when unwell or injured
- Exercising instead of connecting with others
- Feeling physical activity is the most important thing in their life
- Exercising even when they want to stop
How to improve your relationship with physical activity
- Take rest days – rest can help your mind and body to recover
- Switch up your routine – try a lower impact exercise
- Connect with others or try something new
- Be kind to yourself
- Be mindful of your routine – balance exercise and rest days
Blogs
Blogs from people with lived experience of an unhealthy relationship with physical activity.
Blog: Exercise became the sole purpose of my day
Blog: I was running away from my problems
Peer to peer support
Side by Side is an peer to peer support online community where you can listen, share and be heard. It includes 2 tags that allow people to share experiences around physical activity – #physicalactivity and #exerciseproblems.
These tags allow people to share experiences around physical activity. And talk to others with similar stories. It’s free to sign up to Side by Side and profiles can be anonymous.
For more information, email us at [email protected].
