Latest podcast: Exercise as medicine for mental health with Dr Simon Rosenbaum

In this episode, Dr. Adrian Lopresti interviews Dr. Simon Rosenbaum, an academic exercise physiologist, about the intersection of physical activity and mental health. Simon shares insights from his extensive research, highlighting how exercise can be used as therapy to serve as both a preventative measure and a treatment for mental health conditions, particularly depression, anxiety and minimising the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its associated comorbidities and its associated comorbidities, depression, and anxiety.

Simon further discusses the Addi Moves program, a trauma-informed physical activity initiative targeting disadvantaged and trauma-affected communities, emphasising the importance of creating supportive, culturally appropriate environments for exercise.   

Simon underscores the critical role of physical activity in improving mental and physical health outcomes, advocating for its integration into mental health services. He also touches on challenges, such as overcoming stigma and barriers to participation, and the need for collaborative efforts among health professionals to promote and support exercise as a vital component of holistic mental health care.