WHY IS FITNESS IMPORTANT?

One in three Canadians experience mental health issues in their lifetime. Mental health issues can have many causes, ranging from the biological (such as chemical changes in the body) to the environmental (such as stressful life events). No one can predict for sure who will experience them and who won’t. What we do know is that efforts to promote a health body and healthy mind can help prevent mental health issues in all societies.

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Research shows sleep, exercise, and nutrition had a direct effect on stress and academic performance respectively. Stress also had a direct effect on academic performance. All health behaviours demonstrated significant indirect effects, influenced through stress, on academics. Lastly, in a post-secondary research study (Versaevel, N., Mandich, A., Cramp, A., (2014) Canadian Post-Secondary Students, Stress, and Academic Performance – A Socio-Ecological Approach), via focus groups, the study three investigated Canadian university students’ perceptions of individual and institutional factors that impact health and well-being. Students suggested that stress, health behaviours, accountability, and social capital affected their individual health. At an institutional level, a supportive campus culture mediates health; leading to engagement, cohesion, and empowerment. A lack of integration related to student health can result in; disconnection, disempowerment, and decreased motivation adversely impact health. We aim to provide support, connect and promote a healthy lifestyle for youth by building awareness of the importance of physical exercise for mental wellness. Our aim is to empower students to develop the capacity to actively manage their stress and set a foundation for increased ability to sustain mental well-being throughout their lifespan.

Mental Health Strategy for Canada: A Youth Perspective
Mentoring Indigenous Children and Youth
Ontario Ministry Mental Health Strategy
Ontario Advisory Council
Mental Health Association
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