Mental health is a serious concern for many people of all ages and backgrounds. Some may deal with occasional mental health issues while others have more serious concerns that require therapy and medication. If you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, there is no shame in seeking help from all the available resources. While medication and therapy can work, for some people, keeping up with a regular exercise routine can go a long way in improving the way they feel mentally from day to day.
Exercise may reduce symptoms of depression
There is much evidence to suggest that exercise helps promote mental well-being. Unfortunately, this is not widely known, and exercise is not one of the most recommended treatments for depression and other mental conditions. Regular physical activity can be beneficial for men and women of all ages. Plus, regular workouts also promote overall health, which is a great motivation to keep going.
Getting started can be difficult
Depression symptoms can often make it difficult for you to feel motivated to exercise. If you’re going on little sleep, are emotionally drained, and lack the motivation to get out of bed, working out is probably the last thing you want to do. But finding time to exercise can alleviate all those symptoms. The time required and the number of workout sessions needed per week varies greatly by person. It’s also important to know that it may take a while for you to feel the results from your workouts when it comes to your depression symptoms. Working out with a friend or taking a class can provide the motivation you need to stick to a regular exercise routine.
As with any health concern, you should always speak with your doctor when making significant life changes in an attempt to deal with mental health issues or other health concerns. For some people, regular exercise may reduce many symptoms related to depression and other conditions, possibly reducing the need for some types of medications. Every situation is different and it’s important for everyone to listen to medical advice and do what works best for their personal well-being.
