Purposeful activity - learning and education

Your brain is like your body—it gets stronger when you exercise it. There is a lot of research that suggests learning new skills keeps your brain young and fit, especially when you find the learning somewhat challenging, and persevere to succeed. One study found that a twin who played a musical instrument was 64% less likely to suffer dementia in older age than the twin who did not. (Source)

In one study, 256 people with mild to moderate anxiety or depression took part in community education. The courses covered a wide variety of topics, from yoga to creative writing. The study found that after completing the courses, most participants reported feeling less isolated during their courses. They also experienced better wellbeing and less severe symptoms, and this improvement lasted for 12 months. (Source)

In Australia, researchers have looked into the social and health benefits of Men's Sheds. Besides wanting to make new friends and be part of a community, learning or passing on skills is one of the key drivers for men joining a local shed. The relationships built from this social learning bring other health benefits as men share personal stories and get trusted information and advice from their friends. (Source)

If you are recovering from a mental health condition, taking part in an education program can be a great way to rebuild your self-determination, personal responsibility and self-management, as well as experience some positive risk-taking. Establishing a mutually respectful and trusting relationship with an education provider will enable this to occur. (Source)

People with mental health issues may feel particularly disadvantaged when it comes to vocational training or higher education. This may not just be due to symptoms, but also related factors such as low expectations, stigma, and discrimination. By working with occupational therapists and mental health specialists, people with mental health issues can learn skills and strategies that can help them fulfil their educational and vocational goals. (Source)