Physical Health

Physical Activity and Sport

Physical activity is one of the most effective routes to better mental health. And you don’t have to be an Olympic athlete like our ambassador Sir Chris Hoy. Simple things like going for a short walk regularly can really benefit your mental health; daily physical activity has been proven to reduce the chances of experiencing emotional distress. 

We believe sport and physical activity should be inclusive for everyone, including those with mental health problems. We produced Scotland’s Mental Health Charter for Physical Activity and Sport, which sets out how physical activity organisations and clubs can ensure everyone can engage, participate and achieve.

Read more about what we think the Scottish Government and local authorities should be doing to make sure physical activity and mental health are prioritised:

  • SAMH’s View on Sport and Physical Activity

If you’re interested in getting more physically active to help improve your mental health, read our guide ‘Get active for your mental health – top ten tips’.