Rowdy Around Campus | Photo by Erin Pence | Wright State University
The Wright State University community discusses how physical movement can have a positive impact on mental health.
Mental health in college students
Student mental health is a growing concern among campuses nationwide. The American Psychological Association cited that 60% of college students met the criteria of at least one mental health problem from a Healthy Minds Study.
With a plethora of stressors impacting student life, including work, school, family and life adjustments, this study showed that COVID-19 exacerbated these mental health issues.
The Director of the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Dr. Paul Reed, explained that physical movement can help abate the mental health issues that people, including college students, might face.
“Research suggests that increased physical activity, of any kind, can improve depression symptoms experienced by people across the lifespan,” Reed said. “Engaging in regular physical activity has also been shown to reduce the risk of developing depression in children and adults.”
Opportunities for movement at Wright State’s campus
Campus recreation offers opportunities for organized movement and workouts, including pickleball, cycling, yoga, kickboxing and pilates, among others. Erin Compaleo, the outdoor recreation program manager, explained how movement can help student mental health.
“After sitting in a classroom or studying all day, moving your body can help bring back some energy,” Compaleo said. “Next time you think you need that third cup of coffee, maybe think about taking a walk or stretching for five minutes instead, and see how that makes you feel.”
Dr. Robert Rando, director of Counseling and Wellness, explained that CWS regularly asks clients to do some type of physical movement to help manage stress and improve mood.
Advice for improved mental health
Compaleo explained that many people assume that high intensity cardiovascular or weight lifting exercises are the only options; however, while these choices remain beneficial, Compaleo highlighted the power of simply walking.
“Incorporating even just a 20 minute walk into your daily routine can have [a] great impact on your mood and health. As 20 minutes begins to get easy, keep adding more walking into your routine,” Compaleo said.
Rando also suggests that students partake in movement that is personally enjoyable. There are mindful exercises, such as yoga and martial arts, that incorporate the mental aspect of movement as well.
Camryn Harrell, campus recreation group fitness instructor and president of the WSU Dance Team, explained that exercise provides a mood boost and energy lift while reducing stress. Harrell echoed Rando’s sentiment that movement should be enjoyable. For Harrell, this has many benefits.
“Honestly, finding something you look forward to is the best way to get into better shape, because you’ll be more motivated and enjoy the process,” Harrell explained.
Harrell provided further recommendations for students specifically, explaining the importance of lowering stress and increasing endorphins through dedicated quiet time.
“During this time, I typically go for a walk, read or write in a journal to decompress from all of the noise life creates,” Harrell said. “Give yourself the space to be able to hear yourself think.”
How to incorporate movement in a busy schedule
Harrell provided some advice for balancing work, school and personal life, highlighting the importance of intentionality and punctuality.
“You don’t have to go to the greatest lengths to get more movement in, but staying intentional and mindful of how much you are realistically moving in a day will make a huge difference,” Harrell described. “Establish boundaries with yourself, your relationships, your work and even your education. Make sure to check in with yourself, especially during stressful times.”
Students can find more information and resources about mental health on the American Psychological Association website. For WSU-specific information, visit the CWS website or the Campus Recreation website.
