Daily exercise: The secret to nurturing a healthy mind.

We live in a constantly connected world , but we also spend more time than ever in front of electronic screens. From classrooms to offices, from work to leisure, hours spent sitting still leave many feeling tired, stressed, and unmotivated. For children and teenagers, prolonged electronic use can also affect sleep, behavior, and mental health.

But sometimes, a positive change starts with something very simple: getting up and moving. Studies show that physical activity is not only good for the cardiovascular system, muscles, and fitness, but it also helps improve mental health, brings positive feelings, and enhances the quality of life every day.

This message becomes even more meaningful as World Mental Health Day (October 10) 2026 chooses the theme "Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change," emphasizing the importance of listening to real-life experiences and promoting positive changes in mental health care.

Mental health issues are becoming a global challenge.

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders significantly impact the quality of life, learning ability, and productivity of millions of people. Meanwhile, the United Nations Children's Fund (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.

Evidence also shows 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.

According to the WHO, approximately 31% of adults and 80% of adolescents globally do not meet the recommended level 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 engaging in enough physical activity (less than 60 minutes) per 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, emphasizing that even short periods of time can bring significant benefits to physical and mental health.

Maintaining a regular exercise routine offers health benefits at all ages.

In Vietnam, that spirit is being realized through the Sports for Public Health Partnership Initiative, launched by the IOC and WHO, and implemented by the Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH) in collaboration with national and Nghe An provincial partners.

The initiative not only organizes sports activities but also creates 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: “Exercise and sports bring health benefits to all ages. Especially for children and teenagers, exercise not only helps them become healthier physically but also creates opportunities for fun, connection, building self-confidence, and forming positive habits from an early age.”

Through this initiative, we aim 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.”

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.