Let’s learn more about the connection between exercise and mental health.
The Magic Pill
It’s no secret that anxiety and depression rates are increasing among children, adolescents, and adults. It may have started with the pandemic, and although that is behind us, somehow we haven’t been able to shake off the remnants of that time. The isolation, loneliness, and anxiety has led to an even more sedentary lifestyle than before. With that comes lethargy, weight gain, sadness, depression, and even thoughts of suicide.
It comes down to one of the most important tools we have for combating depression and anxiety.
It’s the E word, of course: exercise, the magic pill.
Not only does exercise help us remain physically healthy, but it also contributes to our overall well-being.
How Exercise Changes Everything
It’s probably the last thing you want to think about, but if a part of you wants to get above the depression, embrace it. It can work very well in conjunction with therapy, antidepressants, and other forms of treatment. Talk with a physician about how to start slowly.
Exercise can help improve:
- Sleep
- Sex
- Endurance
- Stress levels
- Mood
- Energy levels
- Weight loss
- Mental alertness
At the same time, it reduces cholesterol and improves cardiovascular health and fitness.
You don’t have to spend hours in a gym to get results. Try any form of aerobic exercise like walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, gardening, or dancing. Pick what you like and try to carve out a time at least 3 times a week to spend time doing one of these things.
How Does Exercise Improve Health?
Exercise increases blood circulation to the brain. It enhances mental health as much as physical health.
The link between exercise and mental health is pretty complicated. Inactivity may be both a cause and a consequence of mental issues.
Exercise benefits your mental health in the following ways:
- The level of chemicals in the brain like serotonin, stress hormones, and endorphins change when you exercise.
- Sleeping better helps you manage your mood.
- It can improve your sense of control, ability to cope, and improve self esteem.
- Exercise distracts you from negative thoughts
- Provides the opportunity to get social support when you exercise with others.
- It’s an outlet for frustrations.
Schedule a Mental Health Consultation in Massachusetts & New York
Contact Stella Psychiatry if you’d like to speak with a specialist about improving your mental health. Give us a call at (617) 221-5040 to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Sources: Exercise and Brain Health – Whole Brain Health
Exercise for Mental Health – PMC (nih.gov)
Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms – Mayo Clinic
