Many who struggle with poor mental health are encouraged to exercise more frequently. But why is this? And does it actually work?
Mental health problems, regardless of their forms, are on the rise globally. WHO (the World Health Organization) reported that in 2019, close to 15% of the world was living with a form of mental disorder, and anxiety and depression were the leading disorders. Many researchers have put this down to the increased use of social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, which encourage addictive behaviors, increase screen time, and promote damaging images that can cause self-esteem issues. However, others have placed the blame on wider socioeconomic problems. As the global economy depreciates, so does the mental health of the global population. Jobs, rent, and cost of living all directly impact quality of life, which is why mental health problems have become more prominent across all generations and ages.
As a result of this, mental health services are stretched thin, so it’s important to understand how people can help themselves in times of need.
How Can Exercise Help Your Mental Health?
The connection between exercise and mental health has been widely researched over the last decade. Not only do active people experience physical benefits such as better organ function and a decreased chance of developing diabetes and heart problems, but they also receive impactful benefits to their mental health.
Exercising releases endorphins, which boost your mood and ease symptoms of depression and anxiety. Participating in physical activity can help with concentration, fatigue, and motivation and may leave you less frustrated or sad.
In addition, exercise can help us sleep better, allowing the body to fall into a deeper and longer sleep. According to a study by Columbia University in 2022, having trouble sleeping has been found to cause or worsen mental health issues significantly, so helping your body sleep better and get the rest it needs has many more benefits than you might think.
What Exercise Should I Be Doing?
There’s no specific exercise routine that you should adopt if you’re struggling mentally. Some studies suggest that symptoms of mental health issues ease with exercises that raise the heart rate significantly, but just simply going for a walk may give you the same benefits.
The form of exercise is completely up to you — listen to your body, understand what exercises suit you, and prioritize the exercises you enjoy.
Research has shown that being outside in nature can positively affect your mental health, too. So, exercising outside, even if it’s only a short walk in a park, can have positive effects.
Things to Consider
If you’re taking medication for a mental illness or other physical ailments, consult your doctor to discuss exercising options. Some medications may hinder your ability to exercise. For example, beta-blockers will make your heart work harder while exercising. This can cause unnecessary strain and potential cardiac problems.
If you suffer from an eating disorder, certain workouts, particularly intense cardio, can be damaging depending on your condition.
Many people suffering from anorexia over-exercise, meaning they use exercise for its weight-loss ‘benefits’. Using exercise in this way can negatively affect the way you perceive your body, exercise, and food, which can have damaging and long-term impacts on your mental health.
Final Thoughts
The connection between mental health and exercise is generally positive. Exercising for up to an hour once or twice a week can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Exercising outside is the perfect way of balancing mindfulness with physical activity. You should feel more relaxed and happier after implementing exercise into your weekly routines.
