Cycling, Mental Health and Me

Mental Health Awareness Week is a time to reflect, share and raise our voices for something many of us experience, but don’t always talk about. 

I’ve lived with depression and anxiety for years. And here’s the truth: depression doesn’t just mean “feeling sad” and anxiety isn’t something you can just “snap out of”. These are long-term, often invisible conditions that can feel incredibly isolating and debilitating. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that you can’t always ‘fix’ things for someone, but you can be there for them. And that’s why community is so powerful.

For me, that community was Cycle Sisters.

We hear often that physical activity improves mental health - and it does. According to the NHS, exercise can relieve stress, anxiety and depression and increase self-esteem. But when you're struggling mentally, finding the courage, energy or motivation to exercise can feel impossible. It’s even harder when you’re also carrying the fear of being visibly different in public spaces. Islamophobia, racism, and the fear of being judged can be just as heavy as the weight of mental illness itself.

Research shows that people from marginalised communities are at increased risk of mental health difficulties, yet are less likely to access appropriate support. That’s why safe and inclusive spaces are so important.

Being part of a group of Muslim women who understands my fears and where I feel supported makes all the difference. After joining Cycle Sisters, weekly rides soon became my favourite day of the week. Now cycling has become a regular part of my life, not just on the weekend, but on other days of the week too.

The women who join our rides often say what I came to learn myself: cycling in a safe, supportive environment can change lives.

In our most recent Cycle Sisters impact survey:

• 92% said their mental and physical health has improved
  

• 85% shared that riding with Cycle Sisters has helped reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness
  

• 86% said they feel more connected to their local communities
  

These findings reflect broader research. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that people who cycle to work are significantly less likely to need medication for mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.

That said, cycling alone isn’t a cure - and medication has played a vital role in managing my mental health. After years of struggling, I’m no longer ashamed to say that mental health treatment, including medication, has helped me live a fuller life.

Today, I’m proud to lead rides for our Tower Hamlets group, supporting others just as I was once supported. I’m so grateful to the brilliant Ride Leaders in Hackney, where my journey began, and to my fellow volunteers.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, I’m thankful for my sisters and for a community that uplifts and supports each other physically and mentally.