Physical activity and an active life positively affect our brain and mental health. According to experts who emphasize that serious mental problems shorten life expectancy, it is necessary to eat a healthy and balanced diet, watch our weight and exercise regularly to maintain mental health.
Üsküdar University Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department Head Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya,
September 8, World Physiotherapy Day has been celebrated all over the world for years with the suggestion of Turkey.
One in every four people have mental problems
Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya said, "This year's title of the World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT), which determines a topic every year and tries to raise awareness for a week, is mental health." Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya stated that one out of every four people encounters situations that will negatively affect their mental health throughout their lives and said, "One out of every six people has experienced one of the most common mental health problems last week."
Mental problems shorten life span
Pointing out that mental health problems are one of the most important causes of the overall burden of disease worldwide, Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya said, "The life expectancy of people with serious mental illness is 10-20 years shorter than those with non-communicable preventable diseases such as heart disease. 70% of patients with mental health problems also die at an early age due to deterioration of their physical health."
People with chronic diseases also experience mental problems
In addition, Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya stated that mental health problems are also seen in people who have chronic diseases, use regular medication or are exposed to long-term treatments and said, "Depression and anxiety are seen in 20% of patients with arthritis, depression in 33% of patients who have had a stroke, and depression in 38% of individuals with frailty syndrome (especially in the elderly)."
Listen to these suggestions
Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya listed her recommendations to protect our mental health as follows
"We should eat a healthy and balanced diet.
We should keep our body weight within healthy limits.
We should exercise regularly.
We should consume alcohol at a very low level or quit.
We should not smoke.
We should keep our blood pressure within normal healthy limits."
Regular exercise is also beneficial for the brain
Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya stated that "Exercise investment" has very important and powerful effects not only for physical health but also for the brain. "Regular physical activity should always be in your life like a very precious jewel. Normal blood pressure, pulse rate, cholesterol level, insulin level and normal body weight that you can achieve by taking your exercise pill regularly will protect you from the risk of dementia in advanced ages like an umbrella."
Moderate exercise should be done
Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya also listed the exercise recommendations as follows:
"Moderate aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes a week and strengthening exercises for large muscle groups 2-3 days a week.
At least 75 minutes of high intensity aerobic activity per week and strengthening exercises for large muscle groups 2-3 days a week.
You can mix moderate and high intensity aerobic exercises: You can run for 30 minutes two days a week and fast walking the other days. You should also do strengthening exercises for large muscle groups 2-3 days a week."
Inactivity shrinks the brain
Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya stated that it has also been shown that people whose physical activity level is 20% less than normal have smaller brains than their peers and said, "Likewise, it has been determined that people with high heart rate (pulse) and blood pressure (blood pressure) have smaller brain volumes compared to their peers with normal blood pressure and pulse. High-intensity interval training, aerobic exercise, weight training, yoga, sports or sports-specific activities improve different functions in the brain. From memory and orientation to complex thinking, problem solving, reasoning and multitasking, the regions that function in many areas are activated."
Consult your physiotherapist for exercise
Prof. Dr. Defne Kaya stated that physiotherapists work with great devotion to increase the level of physical activity, increase heart and lung capacity, increase muscle strength, and improve the level of independence in many diseases that require long-term treatment and said, "Entrust your health to experts. Physiotherapists are the experts in exercise. Remember that exercise and sports contribute to your health only when done effectively and with the right methods. Incorrect and inadequate exercises invite more injuries and diseases. For a healthy and happy life, consult your physiotherapist, who is the only person who will give you the right, effective and health-protective exercise prescription."