International Women’s Day 2023: Actor & Miss Asia takes 10-hr treadmill challenge

HYDERABAD: In an innovative way to celebrate International Women's Day, actress and Miss Asia Akanksha Singh undertook a non-stop 10-hour treadmill challenge to raise awareness about depression illnesses ahead of Women's Day 2023 at In-orbit Mall in Hyderabad.

Akansha, who began the challenge at 11 a.m., intended on running on the treadmill until 9 p.m. on Monday in order to raise awareness about depression illnesses and the role of fitness in combating them. The treadmill session was originally scheduled for 12 hours, but owing to mall restrictions, it was reduced to 10 hours.

The event, which took place on the Ground Floor of the Inorbit Mall, aims to highlight the significance of mental health and urge people to take care of themselves via exercise.

Depression is a significant mental health disorder that affects millions of individuals globally. It can cause feelings of melancholy, pessimism, and helplessness, making daily chores difficult to complete. Exercise is emerging as an effective strategy for treating depression symptoms.

Akanksha Singh aims to raise awareness about the benefits of fitness for mental illnesses and urge people to take care of themselves by participating in this 10-hour treadmill challenge. Her commitment to this cause exemplifies the strength of women and the importance of encouraging mental health and well-being for all.

"I believe that fitness and mental well-being go hand in hand, and I am using this platform to raise awareness about this important issue. Having seen the impact of depression on a loved one in my own family, I know firsthand how crucial it is to prioritize our mental health and fight depression that you might encounter. Through this event, I hope to inspire people to take care of themselves and their loved ones by promoting the benefits of fitness for mental health." Akansha said after completing the 11 hour treadmill challenge.

"I'm proud to support this event and the message it sends. By promoting the benefits of fitness for mental health, we can help create a more resilient and healthier society." said K Shilpa Valli, First woman Dy. Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Hyderabad's IT hub Hyderabad who attended the event to extend her support to Akanksha's unique initiative.

Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary of the Industries & Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) Departments of the Telangana government extended his wishes to Akanksha Singh for a successful and a very important feat. He said, while mental health has its ups and down it is possible to take control of it through fitness and keeping one's body agile. I urge everyone to practice some physical activity in their daily life and keep fit both mentally and physically.

Dr. Shanta Thoutam, Chief Innovation Officer, T-Hub Foundation, who came to cheer Akanksha, said taking care of one’s mental health is need of the hour.

There is a well-established link between physical fitness and mental health, including depression. Studies have consistently found that regular exercise can have a positive impact on symptoms of depression, including reducing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue.

There are several possible explanations for the connection between fitness and depression. One is that exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Exercise also increases the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that are important for regulating mood.

Additionally, exercise can help reduce the negative effects of stress, which can be a contributing factor to depression. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem, which can improve overall well-being.

On the other hand, a lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of depression. People who are less active may be more likely to experience feelings of stress, anxiety, and isolation, which can lead to depression.

It is important to note that while exercise can be an effective tool in managing symptoms of depression, it should not be seen as a replacement for professional treatment. People with depression should work with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs.