Depression and exercise

Depression is a complicated illness, which can involve a number of contributing factors, such as genes, environment, diet, lifestyle, brain chemicals, psychology and personality. The name is used to describe a state of temporary sadness, loneliness, or blues that everyone feels from time to time. Severe depression can dramatically hinder a person’s ability to perform social functions, face day to day situations and at work.

Research shows that the most effective treatment is a combination of antidepressant drugs with a variety of other alternate therapies. Medications have provided a creditable percentage of success. Recent studies suggest that regular exercise may also be an effective way to lift a person's mood. People who suffer from anxiety also improve when they exercise regularly

It has been found out that sufferers tend to be more sedentary in their life habits than normal people. It may also seem that exercise influences the sufferer since a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing the illness, and the illness increases the likelihood of a sedentary lifestyle. Researchers have found that regular exercise, and the subsequent increase in physical fitness and the rise in body temperature that results, alters serotonin levels and other chemicals in the brain and leads to improved mood and feelings of wellbeing.

Research dates back almost 200 years. Recent studies have reported benefits of exercise on mood in healthy and clinically depressed individuals. Most studies shows exercise has psychological and physiologic benefits for participants, with 90% reporting relief effects!

Some of the types of exercises recommended include running and aerobics. No particular type has been found to be of a particular advantage. Benefits from exercise are not dependent on achievement of physical fitness. It is simply relief from symptoms. Implementing an exercise plan on a patient also serves other purposes like a diversion from negative thoughts, learning of a new skill and a process which will positively occupy the mind.

When the illness and exercise blend, endorphins are released, which are our bodies natural pain-killers and can provide relief from some the aches and pains which accompany the condition. Exercise also regulates sleep patterns. This is of tremendous help to patients suffering from insomnia which is one of the foremost symptoms.

Also read our article about Treatment for Depression