Mental health issues are becoming a global challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes that anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders significantly impact the quality of life, learning ability, and productivity of millions of people.
Meanwhile, UNICEF reports that the rate of Vietnamese children and adolescents experiencing common mental health problems ranges from 8% to 29%.
Amidst this landscape, physical activity emerges as an accessible yet often overlooked solution. According to the WHO, when we exercise, the body releases substances in the brain that help us feel more confident and positive.
Numerous studies have also shown that regular physical activity helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improves mood and sleep, enhances brain function, and improves overall health. No drastic changes are needed; simply walking, cycling, jogging, or participating in a favorite sport can have a positive impact on both body and mind.
However, the world is less active than ever before. According to the WHO, approximately 31% of adults and 80% of adolescents globally are not meeting the recommended levels of physical activity.
In Vietnam, the lack of physical activity is also noteworthy, with 91% of girls and 82% of boys aged 11 to 17 not getting enough exercise (less than 60 minutes) each day.
These figures are the reason why international organizations are promoting initiatives to make physical activity a natural part of life. One such example is the Let's Move campaign by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in collaboration with the WHO. The campaign encourages people to make time for physical activity every day, even short periods, which can bring significant benefits to physical and mental health.
In Vietnam, this spirit is being realized through the sports for public health cooperation initiative launched by the IOC and WHO, and implemented by PATH in collaboration with national and Nghe An province partners. The initiative not only organizes sports activities but also fosters an environment that encourages regular exercise and strengthens coordination between the health, education , and sports sectors. Initial results demonstrate the power of small changes.
According to PATH, the initiative's activities have reached over 1.2 million people through media and community outreach; supported over 229,000 students and citizens in participating in and maintaining regular physical activity; and recorded a 20.6% increase in the number of students meeting the physical activity recommendations.
Dr. Le Thi Thu Hien, Director of the Primary Healthcare Program at PATH, shared that exercise and sports offer health benefits at all ages. Especially for children and teenagers, exercise not only helps them become physically healthier but also provides opportunities for fun, connection, building self-confidence, and forming positive habits from an early age.
"Through this initiative, we hope to work with our partners to create environments and opportunities where people can exercise regularly, safely, and enjoyably, contributing to building healthier communities both physically and mentally," said Dr. Le Thi Thu Hien.
On World Mental Health Day (October 10th), the message conveyed isn't about unrealistic goals. It could simply be walking a few extra minutes, playing badminton with friends, cycling with family on the weekend, or participating in a sports activity at school or in the community. When physical activity becomes a habit, each movement is a step towards a healthier, happier, and more connected life.
Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/van-dong-chia-khoa-cho-suc-khoe-tinh-than-1759364.html
