Studies have shown that regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on mental health and is a wonderful stress reliever. It promotes changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being. Exercise also releases endorphins, powerful chemicals in your brain that energize your spirits and make you feel good.
This school year, Brazosport and Brazoswood High Schools have both started a monthly
Mental Health Mile on their campuses to support mental health awareness and the mission of “Nobody Walks Alone.” Once a month, students are encouraged to get outside for some fresh air and a walk along a designated route. This activity has quickly become one that students and staff look forward to each month. In fact, students are overheard saying, “We should do this every day!”
Lauren Albair, Licensed Professional Counselor at Brazosport High School shares that, “the mental health mile not only brings awareness of mental health, helps break the stigma, but also puts words into action and encourages students (and staff) to get outside, exercise, and talk with one another to help with mental health needs.”
Kelsie McLeod, Licensed Professional Counselor at Brazoswood High School shares, “What makes it so enjoyable and impactful is that it gives the students a break in the day to get outside, get their bodies moving, and their minds off of the stress of their day. In counseling sessions, we so often encourage students to find ways to get their bodies moving as research shows what a positive impact exercise and movement can have on our mental health.”
Our student groups that are assisting with the event have been making posters with words of encouragement as well as working water and refreshment stations positioned throughout the walk’s route. We are excited to see this event continue to grow. A special thank you to our Licensed Professional Counselors, Brazosport High School PALS, and Brazoswood High School Safe Haven for bringing the vision to life!
