Updated: May 4, 2023
Originally Published: May 4, 2023
Living in Western New York, I’m no stranger to long winters. As someone with a late March birthday, I grew up with the understanding that my celebrations could range from snow pants to swimsuits. However, this year, the winter felt particularly oppressive, stretching far longer than usual. So, a few weekends ago in early April, my friend Chloe and I made the decision that we couldn’t stay indoors any longer. Our kids were restless, and we were ready to turn them into outdoor adventurers (just kidding… kind of). I reached out to Chloe, and we checked the weather forecast: a few snow flurries were expected, it was chilly, but the sun was shining.
“Let’s go for it!” we agreed.
We chose a local nature park with a delightful, kid-friendly trail that features whimsical fairy houses nestled among the trees. It’s one of our favorite spots—serene, beautifully scenic, and surrounded by the tranquility of nature. I bundled up my toddler in his carrier, wrapped myself warmly, and off we went. As we inhaled the crisp air—so cold it stung our chests—it felt like a refreshing cleanse after being cooped up indoors for so long.
The wildlife was enchanting. For anyone looking to reconnect with nature, this park is a gem. The marshland was alive with birds and the sun filtering through the trees created a picturesque scene. We spotted numerous deer wandering through the woods, sharing this beautiful space with us. We picked up our pace, our hearts racing as I carried my 28-pound toddler, while our kids dashed from one fairy house to the next, their joy and wonder a delight to witness.
Despite the wonderful experience, I couldn’t shake the memory of a recent video I had come across on a homeopathic Facebook page. It depicted a person sprinting through a lush forest, boldly proclaiming, “This is an antidepressant.” Below, a bottle of pills dropped to the ground with the words, “This is a lifelong addiction.”
When I first saw that post, it struck me as fundamentally misguided, reflecting a lack of understanding about mental health. The stigma surrounding mental illness is prevalent, and I hadn’t thought much about that video until our nature walk triggered those thoughts again.
In that moment, did I feel fantastic? Was I at peace? Did my brain release endorphins? Absolutely! But here’s the crucial point: physical activity and fresh air cannot replace my mental health medications. Let’s make this clear: “Exercise…and…fresh…air…do…not…replace…my…mental…health…medications.”
The uplifting feelings from exercise are fleeting, especially for those of us dealing with chemical imbalances that influence our mood, thoughts, and perceptions.
Should I exercise more? Certainly. Is physical activity beneficial? Without a doubt. Is spending time in nature positive for everyone? Yes. Does it cure mental health conditions? No, it simply doesn’t.
Consider someone who doesn’t struggle with anxiety or depression but has had a tough day at work. They may lace up their sneakers and go for a jog, returning feeling revitalized and ready to tackle the rest of their day. That’s wonderful, but such experiences can lead to comments that inadvertently shame those who rely on medication.
For individuals battling severe anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or related issues, the right medication can be the difference between staying in bed or taking that first step towards getting outside. It’s often the initial push needed to put on those shoes and embrace the outdoors.
Mental health challenges are distinct from everyday stress, and exercise alone won’t resolve everything. Posts like the one I encountered only exacerbate the stigma surrounding mental health, leaving many feeling isolated and judged for needing support. Such narratives can even sway someone who has found a helpful medication routine to abandon it, which can be dangerous. It perpetuates the false notion that those with depression just need to “try harder” to be happy. That’s simply not how it works.
I absolutely cherished my walk in the park with my friend and our children. It was a fantastic day that I wouldn’t trade for anything. However, upon returning home, I made sure to take my medications that night, just as I do every night.
For those navigating the complexities of mental illness, prioritize your self-care and disregard the noise around you. You know what’s best for you.
For further insights on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource. If you’re seeking information about artificial insemination, visit this authority on the topic.
Summary
In this article, the author reflects on the importance of balancing the joys of nature walks with the necessity of mental health medications. While exercise and the outdoors can provide temporary relief and joy, they do not replace the essential role of prescribed medications for those dealing with mental health issues. The piece emphasizes the need to combat stigma and recognize the unique challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions.