Physical activity, sport and mental health

We all know that being physically active is good for our bodies. But our physical heath and mental health are closely linked – so physical activity can be very beneficial for our mental health and wellbeing too.

Lots of us don't get enough exercise to stay healthy, but physical activity is particularly important if you have a mental health problem because people with mental health problems are more likely to:

• have a poor diet
• smoke or drink too much alcohol
• be overweight or obese (this can be a side effect of taking medication)

So if you have a mental health problem, the health benefits of becoming more physically active become even more significant.