Rock climbing therapy for mental health com May 4, 2025 · Discover how climbing supports mental health – from reducing anxiety to building resilience and self-awareness. It has potential to enhance mental health, through improved self-efficacy and social interaction, making it a novel intervention for addressing anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues in adolescents. Mental Exercises : Mindfulness Exercises: 5-10min of mindfulness before climbing (Luttenberger et. This article explores the psychological benefits of climbing and why it's more than just physical exercise. al, 2017). Jan 18, 2023 · Therapy, as I’ve learned on my mental health journey, is a lot like rock climbing. Rock climbing (RC) has gained attention as a therapeutic tool in psychiatric settings that merges physical exertion with mental engagement. al, 2015 and Stelzer et. In this metaphor, you (the climber) are the patient, the mountain is your mental health challenge, the "problems" are all the obstacles that stand between you and overcoming the challenge, such as the loss of a job or the death of a loved one or an illness. See full list on conqueryourcrux. . These exercises and ideas create a starting point for those looking to add a physical component in rock climbing to enhance their mental well-being. Exercise—climbing included—boosts mood-related chemicals in our brain like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, helping to lift our spirits. Apr 3, 2024 · Multiple studies have concluded that the various types of climbing – sport, trad, bouldering, crack climbing – can all be effective in managing symptoms of mental illness, such as depression, anxiety and stress. Jul 29, 2021 · The results, published in the International Journal of Emergency Mental Health and Human Resilience, showed a marked decrease in symptoms.