Olympian Laura Muir Launches Campaign to Tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder

Olympian Laura Muir is taking the lead in a new initiative aimed at encouraging Scots to stay active during the winter months, specifically to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The 1500m runner has partnered with the sports supplement brand Move Pre Workout for its “Move Through It” campaign, which supports the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH). This campaign highlights the importance of physical activity in improving mental health, particularly during the colder, darker months.

According to the NHS, approximately one in four people in the UK will face a mental health issue each year, with around two million individuals affected by SAD. Muir’s campaign aims to provide practical steps for individuals to enhance their well-being, regardless of the weather conditions.

Emphasizing the Importance of Movement

Muir, 32, hailing from Milnathort, Kinross-shire, shared her insights on the benefits of remaining active in challenging conditions. She stated, “Part of you knows it’s going to be hard, wet, and cold, but there is also something really rewarding about it. When you come back from a session in horrible conditions, it’s even more rewarding. You feel so much better physically and mentally for having gone and done it.”

The Olympic silver medallist, who has won numerous titles in the women’s 1500m, also spoke about resilience in endurance sports. “When I think of endurance, I think of resilience. It’s not just about how long you can go, but how often you can show up, especially when it’s hard,” Muir added.

To foster a supportive environment, Muir recommends training with a friend. She explained, “If you’re meeting someone, you’re committed to that person, so you can’t not show. It also can be much safer than running alone, especially for women.”

Supporting Mental Health Initiatives

In a bid to further support mental health in Scotland, Move Pre Workout is donating £1 from every tub or carton sold during the campaign to SAMH, which is essential for funding mental health initiatives across the nation. Additionally, all profits from specially designed t-shirts and product bundles will go directly to the charity.

Muir’s achievements in athletics are impressive, including gold medals at the Commonwealth Games and European Championships. She earned a silver medal in the 1500m at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021 and recently set a new personal best while finishing fifth in the final at the 2023 Paris Olympics.

Through this campaign, Muir aims to inspire individuals to prioritize their mental health by embracing physical activity, especially during the winter months when many may experience low mood. By promoting a sense of community and resilience, Muir hopes to pave the way for a healthier and more active Scotland.