What if one of the most powerful tools for your mental health wasn’t another app, strategy, or course… but something as simple as moving your body?

In this episode, we sit down with Steph Gill our very own Injury Prevention Specialist to explore the science behind how exercise supports mental health, especially in high-pressure roles like emergency services.

We unpack why movement isn’t just about physical fitness, but a critical foundation for emotional wellbeing, stress regulation, and long-term resilience in the job.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why the mind–body split matters for mental health
• How exercise changes your brain and boosts mood
• The role of movement in conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia
• Practical ways to stay active in a busy, shift-based life
• Using exercise to support, manage, and protect your mental health

Takeaway

You don’t need to overhaul your life to improve your mental health.
Sometimes, the most powerful shift is simply this: move your body, regularly, in a way that works for you.

Learn more:
Exercise can treat and prevent depression and anxiety 

Improving your mental health through exercise 

We’d love to hear from you

Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team atAMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au

Support is always available

If this episode has raised anything for you:
NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home. This includes the Injury Prevention Specialists/Exercise Physiologists for your individual movement needs or to join our perinatal support group.

Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline

Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance.Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley.Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham.Technical production by East Coast Studio.

We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present.

The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional.