With the Movement Control Order set in place indefinitely, the country’s economy and mental health of citizens have taken a huge toll, with the number of suicide cases increasing each day as families are slowly losing the will to live.
According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), the Psychosocial Support Helpline received 122,328 calls between January 1 and June 18, with 89.4% of these calls relating to loss of income, family altercations, marital problems, and physical and emotional abuse.
In light of these mounting psychological pressure, the Ministry has outlined a few tips that may help reduce its negative impact:
• Identify the source of concern by obtaining accurate and correct information;
• Avoid stigmatizing those infected with COVID-19 as it is discriminatory and prevents the public from seeking treatment;
• Maintain optimal levels of fitness and peace of mind;
• Communicate regularly with family and friends;
• Seek counselling immediately if necessary;
• Always be sensitive to any changes in yourself or those around you who may need mental support;
While these tips are helpful, one particular activity that’s often neglected is running. We get it, no one wants to sprint a few kilometers when he/she is feeling down. But did you know that running provides important health benefits?
First, running increases blood flow to the brain and releases natural mood-elevating compounds known as endocannabinoids, which makes one feel less anxious and stressed. Second, running helps your mind and body to be sharper and stronger as it trains you to be focused. Third, running has long been documented to be effective in reducing the risk of obesity, Alzheimers, insomnia, depression, diabetes, and certain forms of cancer.
Do these points convince you already? If it has, why not take part in Taylor’s University’s《All About Love》virtual charity run event? Organised by its Chinese Society, it is set to take place from July 30 until August 14 and will be raising funds for the USJ One Charity Home (Pertubuhan Kebajikan USJ Subang Jaya).
Aside from the main event, there will also be various programs throughout such as the Opening Ceremony (July 30), Online Camp (August 1), and Closing Ceremony, which will be streamed live via Facebook on August 14.
Participants of the virtual run will be able to choose their preferred location and time slot to fulfil the 5KM prerequisite and be in the running (no pun intended) to receive extra awards such as an e-certificate and other attractive prizes.
If you are interested in joining this event, do take note of these important dates:
Opening Ceremony: July 30
Online Camp: August 1
Virtual Charity Run: August 4 – August 13
Closing Ceremony: August 14
Platforms: Instagram, Facebook Live, Zoom
For more information, kindly visit the event’s official Instagram page at allaboutlove_tcs
Sources: allaboutlove_tcs
Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
