Addiction is a complex, multifaceted issue which physical activity cannot solely resolve or manage. However, it can be used to supplement varying therapies and medications.

Although both the number and rate of alcohol-specific deaths has decreased since 2011, men have twice the mortality rate than that of females. Furthermore, in 2018/19 males in Suffolk were hospitalised for alcohol-related conditions, at 711 per 100,000 of men, in comparison to 479 per 100,000 of women. Consequently, although alcohol-related deaths have declined overall, men continue to be disproportionately affected by addiction, specifically in regards to alcoholism.

In order to address this and assist in the management of addiction, exercise – in any form – can be used as a tool to promote physical and mental wellbeing. Exercise does not only mean attending a gym. Rather, it could refer to taking a walk, playing a football game with friends or even running after the kids!

Physical activity can:

1. Regulate your mood – When you exercise your nervous system produces endorphins, which give you higher self-esteem.
2. Improve your mental health – As you exercise the hormone cortisol is released. It aids in the management of stress, anxiety, depression etc.
3. Connect you to a community – Group activities help in forging new social bonds and subsequently reduce loneliness in recovery.
4. Improve your sleep patterns – By expending energy during your physical activities, your body will need more rest.
5. Increase your energy and strength – As you exercise your endurance will increase, and the arteries which move blood throughout your body will strengthen.

Although this is not an exhaustive list of the benefits of exercise, it demonstrates how useful it is in helping to manage addiction.

To help address this issue, Active Suffolk – in collaboration with a range of local providers – will be initiating the Recovery Grant Scheme, funded by Suffolk County Council. It will provide a range of physical activities, as a means of aiding the recovery of those with drug and alcohol addiction. In the coming months, we will deliver the first Suffolk-based program of its kind.

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