How Physical Excercise Can Improve Your Mental Health
1. Exercise helps your brain release endorphins and other "feel-good" chemicals which helps with both depression and anxiety. Even something as simple as a 20-minute walk outside can help boost the production of these natural depression fighters in your body.
2. There is research that shows exercise can help support your immune system, staving off other illnesses that can worsen your depression. While scientists are still unclear how and why this works, they are clear that consistent, moderate exercise can improve your immune system which in turn can help with mood disorders.
3. Social interaction and connection are valuable resources for anxiety and depression. Although you may not feel like being social, having people to interact with can boost your mood and help you redirect feelings of worry. Find a gym or exercise group that makes you feel comfortable not intimidated- it will help you take that next step and actually chat with the people.
4. By setting an attainable goal and then working towards it you can improve your self-confidence and self-esteem. Consider setting small goals such as working out 2 times a week or adding an additional 10 minutes to your normal treadmill routine. Once you reach that milestone, you will find it easier to set new, more challenging goals and reach them.
5. Group classes or personal training sessions can help you maintain your commitment and keep you motivated. They also give you new opportunities to build your social support network. Not only is it important to get out and meet people but you also need to establish relationships with those who are committed to helping you increase your physical and emotional wellness.
6. Regular exercise can help with weight loss, lowering cholesterol, and can improve your overall self-image and physical well-being. Poor physical health can increase symptoms and create additional challenges that make overcoming depression and anxiety more difficult.
Depression and anxiety are real medical conditions and you should consult with your doctor or therapist to develop a complete treatment plan that is best for you. Exercise is not a cure for these issues but it can be useful part of your overall treatment and provide lasting benefits for both physical and mental health
Published by Esther Boykin, LMFT - Featured Contributor in Health
I'm a marriage and family therapist and co-owner of Group Therapy Associates,a small private practice in Northern VA. As a free lance writer, I primarily write about couples issues, parenting, & adolescents... View profile
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