Everyone’s mental health varies in response to different stressors, trauma, and experiences. An individual’s mental health can range between positive and healthy through to depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other aliments that impact their impact day-to-day functioning and relationships.

The costs of unrecognised and untreated trauma and mental illness are huge. These costs include reduced quality of life, reduced life expectancy and loss of productivity. Costs also include increased use of medical, correctional, social, and mental health services.

Evidence indicates men are far less likely to seek help for mental health conditions than women which is one of the reasons why The Yoga Foundation has worked with men impacted by mental health challenges, poverty, homelessness, trauma and isolation since their inception at a range of organisations including: Mission Australia, Ozanam Learning Centre, St Vincent’s Hospital, Flourish Australia and Soldier On.

How yoga for mental health makes a difference

“Having Yoga on site is beneficial to our community as it is complementary to the mental health support we offer and the holistic approach we believe in. Our participants are encouraged to access it as a way to support their mental health ongoing and we see the knock on effect with the additional benefits such as increased physical health and mobility.” Kristina Lovicu, Mission Australia

“Yoga helps me manage the anxiety and depression that I have. It tends to make a significant improvement both on the day and in a lasting way afterwards.”
— Dan

The social worker at the Redfern Centre noted that, “yoga provides a safe space, is not competitive and allows participants to take part without judgment: they are encouraged to accept themselves where they are at on that particular day. This means the participants mainly lead extremely inactive lives due to their mental health problems. This of course leads to physical issues and lack of social connection.” 

“Thanks so much for the yoga program at our Canterbury Life Home. The residents have all found such positive outcomes from practising the program, particularly quieting of the voices and noise they experience on a daily basis. They've also asked if we can please continue with the weekly classes. Thank you and your team again, this has been a truly fantastic opportunity for our residents. Julaine Booth, The Cooperative Life.

The yoga class has been a successful way for their vulnerable clients to take part in an activity that has psychological and physical benefits and, very importantly, enables social connection.

If you are in need of crisis support contact Lifeline at 13 11 44