Research has shown that exercise can help alleviate symptoms of depression. According to Jeanine Stein of the Los Angeles Times newspaper, one way exercise helps depression is by "inspiring people to return to work and connect again with friends and family, ultimately providing motivation to stay on course [with their depression treatments]. Such connections are crucial for depressed people." Exercise can also stimulate physical and psychological reactions to occur in the brain that also help improve mood.
Endorphins and Norepinephrine
According to the Harvard Medical School, "For many years, experts have known that exercise enhances the action of endorphins, chemicals that circulate throughout the body. Endorphins improve natural immunity and reduce the perception of pain. They may also serve to improve mood. Another theory is that exercise stimulates the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which may directly improve mood." Endorphins and norepinephrine help elevate your mood, making you feel good physically and emotionally.
Gaining Confidence
The Mayo Clinic says that exercising regularly can also help you improve your overall feeling of confidence in yourself and in your body. You can set small or large goals and, when those goals are accomplished, your sense of self-confidence will skyrocket, alleviating some of the symptoms of depression. Having more confidence also allows you to take your mind off of your negative thoughts that may influence your depression or anxiety.
Social Time
Exercising with friends, family or other loved ones may also help alleviate symptoms of depression, says the Mayo Clinic. Being able to talk to, share with, or even simply smile at another person will elevate your mood and help maintain a positive outlook on the day. Coupled with the confidence and mood-boosting chemical reactions, this social time can have considerable and positive healing effects on depression.
Coping Skills
The Mayo Clinic also states that exercising allows you to develop helpful coping skills that can alleviate symptoms of depression. Managing stress is a coping mechanism that can help you maintain control over your emotions and help you maintain a calm demeanor. More negative coping strategies may be drinking alcohol or taking drugs and wishing for help. Negative coping strategies may actually cause depression symptoms to worsen, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Types of Exercise To Help Depression
Harvard Medical School says, "A study published in 2005 found that walking fast for about 35 minutes a day five times a week or 60 minutes a day three times a week had a significant influence on mild to moderate depression symptoms." Other exercises may include gardening, taking a slow stroll, washing a car, cleaning around the house or any other activity that gets your body moving.
