Deadlifts Over Depression: A Movement to Boost Mental Health

Mental health struggles often go unnoticed at first glance, even though they are prevalent in our society. It's hard to believe that a fit personal trainer

who appears to have it all together, once grappled with severe anxiety, depression, and a binge-eating disorder just a few years ago.

The Birth of Deadlifts Over Depression

"Deadlifts Over Depression" is a movement initiated by Christine Coen to highlight the impact of exercise on mental health. Inspired by her own personal journey.

Christine started a social media campaign encouraging people to participate in the #deadliftsoverdepressionchallenge.

The challenge involves filming a video of yourself doing as many deadlifts as possible in 60 seconds, sharing it online with the campaign's mission, and tagging friends to continue the challenge.

Since the challenge's inception on August 1st, over 50 videos have been submitted, and more people join in every day. So far,

over $2000 of the $5K goal has been raised. These funds are earmarked for creating programs to help people struggling with mental health through movement, gut health balancing,

and a supportive community of #warriors.

How to Participate

To participate, film yourself performing as many deadlifts as you can in 60 seconds. Use whatever you have available

Weights, kettlebells, or even household items like your dog! Here’s a simple script to follow at the start of your video:

"Hi, my name is [Your Name] and I’m doing the 60-second Deadlifts Over Depression challenge to raise awareness of how physical activity can help with mental health.

I challenge [Friend One], [Friend Two], and [Friend Three] to see how many deadlifts they can do in 60 seconds. Here goes!"

Remember to tag @deadliftsfordepression when you post your video.

Christine's Journey

Christine Coen, a registered dietitian and fitness professional with over 10 years of experience, combines her passion for

fitness and mental health to motivate people to move every day. The founder of Deadlifts Over Depression,

Christine's mission is to transform how we talk about, educate, and treat depression and anxiety through physical activity and nutrition.

Her goal is to empower 100,000 people to improve their mental well-being through exercise and nutrition choices.

Christine had a seemingly perfect life – good grades, a good college, a good job – but eventually, her lack of mindfulness about her own life caught up with her.

Within a year, she faced burnout, stress, and a mental health crisis within her family. She felt apathetic, exhausted, and isolated, leading to

Binge-eating and weight gain. Despite knowing, she needed help, Christine felt trapped in a cycle of depression and anxiety.

Finding Healing Through Movement

Christine’s turning point came when she attended a hot yoga class. After the class, she felt lighter, calmer, and more hopeful.

This experience made her realize that movement was the medicine she needed.

Exercise became her way to tap into her inner strength and transform her mental well-being.

Today, Christine empowers others to use movement to improve their mental health, even if it’s just for five minutes a day.

The Deadlifts Over Depression Challenge is designed for anyone who can lift something off the ground, using any weight or object.

Join the Movement

The Deadlifts Over Depression Challenge is a powerful reminder of the positive impact exercise can have on mental health.

By participating and spreading the word, you can help raise awareness and support for those struggling with depression and anxiety.

For more information on how to properly perform a deadlift, check out this video tutorial.

Join Christine Coen and the growing community of #warriors in transforming mental health through movement and exercise.

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