Physiotherapy and Mental Health

Did you know nearly half of all Australian adults struggle with their mental health at some point in their lives?

Your mental health impacts every area of not just your life, but also the lives of those around you.

When your mental health is good, you’re more able to enjoy life, connect with others, and cope with hardship. Poor mental health, however, negatively affects your physical health, behaviour, relationships, and work or study.

We all know about the many benefits of being physically active for our bodies, but one often-overlooked advantage of exercise is the positive effects on our mental well-being.

That’s where physiotherapy for mental health comes in.

At Valens Care, we promote mental and emotional well-being by bringing the physical and mental aspects of your health together. We use physical activity, exercise, manual therapy, and functional movement to strengthen your resilience and empower you to make positive changes in your life.

Here we discuss the role of physiotherapy in mental health and how Valens Care can help you.

Table of Contents

Mental health throughout your life

Your mental health is impacted by many different factors including your age and stage of life, biological factors (i.e., hormones), family history, life experiences, stressors, etc.

Mental health struggles are often associated with anxiety and depression, which are common symptoms. However, it’s important to remember poor mental health can manifest in many other ways and may present itself differently throughout your life. Here’s some examples.

Children and Adolescents- may struggle with sleeping and concentrating at school. They might have a low appetite, mood swings, irritability, and fatigue
Young and Middle-Aged Adults- may experience panic attacks, lack of motivation, low mood, stress, difficulty sleeping and eating, headaches, fatigue, weight gain, and gastrointestinal upset

Older Adults- may feel lonely or socially isolated and can experience changes in appetite and sleeping patterns.

How can physical activity help?

Research shows a link between poor mental health and poor physical health, highlighting the importance of taking care of both aspects of your well-being.

Physical activity can positively impact your mental health.

Exercise is not only great for your physical fitness but also increases your energy, improves the quality of your sleep, and builds feelings of confidence and accomplishment.

But that’s not all.

Exercise triggers the release of endorphins and oxytocin. These are associated with several benefits to our mental health including increased social activity, reduced stress, formation of relationships, and reduction in anxiety and fear.

Physiotherapy for mental health

At Valens Care, we support many clients with various mental health struggles. We work with our clients to optimise their physical performance, improve sleep patterns, increase energy levels, promote relaxation, and reduce pain.

Here are some of the ways physiotherapy may help your mental health:

Exercise Prescription

As mentioned, exercise is a powerful tool in the management of symptoms of poor mental health. Physiotherapy for mental health involves a thorough assessment of your needs and abilities and training on how to exercise safely and effectively. We work hard to create a program that you find achievable and enjoyable to keep you motivated.

Dry Needling

Dry needling involves inserting thin needles into your skin to stimulate healing and release trigger points. This technique has the potential to alleviate symptoms such as stress and anxiety by influencing parts of your brain associated with pain and sensitivity. This reduces worry and supports relaxation.

Additionally, dry needling helps regulate hormones and neurotransmitters responsible for controlling your mood and emotions and activates your parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for rest, digestion, repair, and recovery). Dry needling may also help to relieve pain and improve range of motion.

Education and Support

One of the most important components of mental health physiotherapy is education and support. Physiotherapy is a non-judgmental space. It’s important to us that you feel comfortable and supported. Your physiotherapist can teach you relaxation and mindfulness techniques (i.e., breathing exercises) to help you reduce stress and increase your feelings of control.

Pain Management

For some, mental health struggles can result from chronic pain. For others, the sedentary lifestyle and poor posture associated with poor mental health can result in stiffness and pain. This is why focusing on the management of pain is integral to mental health physiotherapy.

Successful management of pain can have a profoundly positive impact on your mood and overall well-being.

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy can stimulate your vagus nerve which sends signals to your parasympathetic nervous system. Regular stimulation of the vagus nerve builds its tone, allowing signals to travel more quickly around the body which may lead to faster relaxation and less anxiety.

The Valens Care Difference

We understand that when you’re living with mental health challenges you may be feeling sad, alone, and untrusting. That’s why we take a person-centered approach, remembering every person is unique and treating every client with compassion and care. Our hands-on treatment is tailored specifically to you, and your current challenges, your fears, your priorities, and your goals.

If you or someone you love is struggling with their mental health, contact us today to learn about how Physiotherapy may be able to help.

* All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Valens Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.