We know that physical activity (PA) is helpful in the prevention and treatment of depression but what we really don’t have much research on is HOW it does that. There are a lot of theories – like ‘happy hormones’ or endorphins – but did you know that the research doesn’t really support this hypothesis? This session draws on research conducted in 2022 (soon to be published) at Deakin University exploring the behavioural and psychosocial mechanisms that may play a part in the PA – depression relationship.
Learning Outcomes:
This session will be one of the first spaces where you can learn about current research in the field that should affect the messages you’re putting out to clients if you’re suggesting that the workouts / sessions / PA you’re running will help their mental health!
• A thorough (evidence-based) foundation around how PA affects depressive symptoms.
• Suggestions around how to promote your sessions backed up by science.
• Interactive exploration about how you can alter the content of your sessions to do more to leverage the benefits that PA can have on your client’s mental health.
