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Croyde's cold water swim tackles mental health

It's alright once you're in!

For some of us swimming in icy cold water is the worst possible thing you can do. But for those with mental health issues and going through the menopause it could be a huge benefit as it's said to reduce reaction to stress and levels of inflammation. 

A group of sea swimmers alongside with the Chill group in Croyde, North Devon have taken part in a clinical trial to see if cold water swimming could be a treatment for anxiety and depression.  

Doctors will look at the results which are expected in the next six months and may lead to your GP prescribing a dip instead of a medication. 

One of the swimmers Sandrea Simons said, "I've been going through the menopause and I've found that the anxiety it brings has been really bad for me and thought that maybe I could use this course".

Sarah Lewis is another swimmer who took part "I've had four breakdowns. Depression and anxiety and I did get panic attacks. I would never think of coming to the beach or doing something like this and meeting new people has been tremendous".

The results are currently being analysed by health professionals.

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