Prominent global leader in movement and mental health research, Dr. Brendon Stubbs of Dubai, has made significant contributions to the study of how physical activity and exercise can benefit individuals with mental health conditions. “In the world of physical therapy, I had learned how to mend the body when it was injured, but what struck me was how little I knew about the mind,” Dr. Stubbs recalls. Working in the mental health hospital and seeing individuals in dire need of treatment made him realize the profound impact that exercise and movement can have on people who are at their lowest points.
During an interview with Khaleej Times amid the ongoing Dubai Fitness Challenge, Dr. Stubbs emphasized the significant role of exercise in mental health. Citing groundbreaking multinational studies, Dr. Stubbs highlighted that a world with higher levels of physical activity exhibits lower risks of depression in the future and can even aid in the treatment of mental health conditions. In a study conducted by colleagues in the Netherlands, exercise was found to be as effective as medication in improving mental health outcomes for individuals grappling with depression and anxiety.
Dr. Stubbs shared insights on how physical activity can serve as an effective outlet for releasing pent-up emotions, particularly for individuals dealing with mood disorders, including depression. Exercise provides a means for people to reconnect with their bodies, fostering a sense of presence and belonging. Additionally, he emphasized that engaging in exercise, including strength training and improving cardiorespiratory fitness, can contribute not only to mental health benefits but also to a longer and healthier life.
Dr. Stubbs also clarified that physical activity encompasses any bodily movement that increases energy expenditure, debunking the misconception that exercise always entails going to the gym or engaging in intense workouts. He stressed that even small changes can have a significant impact, especially for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
Overall, Dr. Stubbs’ insights are derived from robust scientific evidence that supports the claim that movement and physical activity play a pivotal role in promoting better mental health. His work in the field of mental health and physical activity has significantly advanced our understanding of how exercise can be utilized as a complementary treatment for various mental health disorders.
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