Let’s Prioritize Mental Health Amidst Pandemic, Too
While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on the physical health of our nation, it’s important to note – as we recently observed World Mental Health Day this week – that initial studies show the mental health of Americans has also worsened, potentially leading to additional challenges in the long-term. Even as individuals and families continue to be careful of how they interact in public, it’s important that – as social creatures – we don’t ignore the very real emotional and mental health benefits of personal interaction and physical activity.
Over the past 18 months, many people have limited their interaction with friends and loved ones – altering their routine to include working and shopping from home, canceling social gatherings, skipping the gym, and not dining out.
This lack of social interaction led to many people feeling lonely and isolated. Approximately four in ten adults in November 2020 reported symptoms of anxiety or depression during the pandemic, whereas only one in ten reported having those same symptoms in the first six months of 2019.
As the world finds its way to a new normal, we are seeing businesses reopen, children back in school, and workers coming back to the office. However, while the progress – even if incremental – is good, mental health challenges remain.
Regular physical activity, including safe use of fitness centers, has tangible physical and mental health benefits. With plenty of space and proper distancing protocols, fitness centers provide the environment and equipment to promote healthier lifestyles. After reaching record lows in the early months of the pandemic, the latest data shows traffic at fitness centers is increasing. And while some Americans live in locations that allow for outdoor exercise year-round, the majority do not, and fitness centers may be the only realistic and affordable option for regular physical activity and exercise.
Regular exercise, even just a few hours per week, has been shown to have immense health benefits, such as strengthening the immune system and maintaining a healthy weight.
But what’s lesser known are the mental health and emotional benefits of exercise and social engagement.
According to Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, feelings of loneliness and social isolation can lead to adverse health consequences that include sleeplessness, reduced immune function, higher anxiety, depression, and suicide rates, and even higher risks of premature mortality. Isolation and loneliness are also linked to poor cardiovascular health and cognitive function, leading to higher risk for coronary heart disease and stroke as well as a higher risk of dementia later in life.
Fortunately, participating in physical activity causes the release of endorphins that help to combat feelings of anxiety and depression and can help reduce COVID-19 comorbidities and long-term health challenges. Fitness centers play an important role in our nation’s physical and mental health delivery infrastructure. And, as we continue to navigate COVID-19, regular physical activity can alleviate some of the hardships that this pandemic has brought and fitness centers, practicing public health mitigation procedures, can also bring us together at a time when our humanity needs positive social interactions.
Richard H. Carmona, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.S., was the 17th Surgeon General of the United States. He advises Planet Fitness on COVID-19 response and mitigation efforts.
