How Exercise Fights Anxiety And Depression

We all know that regular exercise and maintaining an active lifestyle helps keep us fit and healthy. But did you know that it can also improve your mental health? Many psychologists in Montreal “prescribe” exercise as part of their patients’ treatment program especially for those who suffer from anxiety, depression, stress and ADHD. According to research, even moderate exercise can make a difference.

Mental Health Benefits

Exercise can improve a person’s physical health and physique but it also offers so much more. While it is effective in trimming the waistline, what really motivates people to continue their exercise routines is that it gives them a huge sense of well-being and enables them to be more energetic throughout the day. It also helps relax their mind and enable them to have a more positive outlook.

Fights depression

It’s been found that exercise is effective in treating mild to moderate cases of depression. In fact, it’s been found that it’s just as effective as antidepressants (minus the side effects obviously!).

How is it able to do this? Well, when a person exercises, it promotes brain activities such as the reduction of inflammation, release of endorphins (happy hormones), and the growth of neurons. Exercise also distracts you from the things that make you sad or depressed, and breaks out the cycle of negative thoughts.

Prevents anxiety

People who suffer from anxiety should consider exercising. What it does is relieve tension and stress and at the same time, enhance one’s mood and well being by triggering the release of endorphins. If you’re always worried about something, try going out for a 30-minute walk and afterwards you will notice how different you feel.

Reduces stress

When you are under a lot of stress, you may notice that your body aches and that your muscles become tense. You might experience pain in your jaw, shoulders and back and even tightness in your chest. Some people also experience heartburn and insomnia when they are stressed out. If left untreated (or if not managed), it can create a vicious cycle that could damage your overall health permanently. If you are often stressed out, push yourself to exercise at least a few times a week. Exercising will break this cycle and will help you become more relaxed.

Reduces ADHD symptoms

While exercise does not cure ADHD, it can help reduce its symptoms. ADHD makes it difficult for a person to concentrate and they often lack motivation at work or in school. When one exercises, the brain gets more norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin, leading to better focus and longer attention span. Some doctors even claim it works in much the same way as Adderall and Ritalin.

You don’t have to do a triathlon to be able to reap the benefits of exercise. In fact, you don’t have to exercise for hours at all. Even a 30 minute jog, brisk walking, dancing or any aerobic activity performed 3-5 times a week can do wonders not only for your body but for your mind as well.