MACON, Ga. — Finances. The COVID-19 pandemic. An injury. Issues around the world.
All the reasons researchers say why adults have been more stressed.
A recent study from the American Psychological Association found adults are seeing higher mental health diagnoses.
According to the study, adults 35 to 44 also experienced the highest increase in mental health diagnoses. It reported that it increased from 31% in 2019 to 45% in 2023.
However, that stress can lead to physical health issues as well.
Alli Kerr with The Pink Physique in Macon said exercising can give your brain a break.
"When you exercise, it doesn't have to be anything fancy," Kerr said. "It can be anything that you enjoy. It can be going for a walk, or it can be strength training, which I am a big proponent of especially for women. Getting them to do strength training is important because not only do you get mental health benefits, but you also get a lot of physical health benefits as far as your bones, muscle strengths, and longevity."
First Presbyterian Day School girls basketball coach Doug Wasden said he wasn't feeling himself after injuring his elbow in 2021.
"I became very depressed about working out," he said. "My arm wasn't moving the same, I started to gain weight."
Wasden said he gained over 25 pounds. The owner of Regymen Fitness, Tish Arnold, invited Wasden and their basketball team to come workout at her gym, but he was hesitant.
Wasden let his girls go and get a workout in. After talking to one of the parents, he said a week later he tried it out himself and was "sold on it." Arnold said working out can reduce stress.
"Your mood, your anxiety, depression. It also helps with your sleep," he said. "So when you leave here, you're feelin' good, your endorphins are feeling good, and you walk out the door ready to conquer the world."
Wasden said with a change in diet, consistent workout routine and motivation, he lost 15 pounds in less than a month. He says he doesn't feel pain or stiffness in his elbow and he's feeling like himself and better again.
"It really encouraged me and it's got me moving in the right direction. I'm sold on it," Wasden said.