Michelle New, a clinical child psychologist, writes that one in every eight teenagers suffers from depression. Accordingly, antidepressants are the most prescribed medication. Because of this, many alternative forms of treatment are being explored, exercise being a chief interest. A study recently performed by Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina, concluded that regular exercise for 30 minutes three times a week can be just as effective as some prescribed antidepressants, such as Prozac. Louder than ever, practitioners are declaring that exercise, such as running, is therapeutic for depression and holds an influence in many areas.
Hormones
In terms of hormonal stability, the teenage years are a turbulent time. Much of a teenager’s depressive mood swings can originate from this physiological occurrence alone. However, running and other forms of exercise can help to stabilize the mental and emotional effects of these hormones. Prolonged physical exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which is the body’s natural “feel good” hormone. Endorphins work to mask pain and improve mental outlook. In addition, running lowers the level of harmful stress reaction hormones released in response to depression. Prolonged exercise helps to balance these hormones and instigate the repair of damaged tissue.
Mental and Physical Outlook
According doctors Stephan Cembrowicz and Dorcas Kingham, anxiety and low self esteem can be directly treated through exercise as it gives physical relaxation, a sense of well being and confidence. Bodily image and performance play a marked role in many cases of teenage depression for both males and females. Through running, a teenager can improve herself physically and gain a sense of confidence, which bolsters self esteem and helps prevent negative thoughts, feelings and anxiety.
Fatigue
Teenagers suffering from depression are often severely fatigued, so usually the idea of running is not attractive nor will it be easy at first. However, running produces an entirely different form of fatigue than that which comes with depression. Running will tire the body, but if a teenager stays faithful to a program she will notice improvements in her energy reserves. She will have greater physical and mental stamina, allowing her to handle stressful situations without the emotional and mental fatigue typically incurred.
Focus
Depressed teenagers usually struggle with being completely focused on themselves, stuck thinking about their faults, criticisms and worries. It’s called “self sabotage.” An excellent distraction, running helps to provide an escape from such thoughts and help channel the teenager’s thinking towards a productive, positive focus.
Mood
The outdoors is the runner’s playground and according to researchers, that fact alone can be very uplifting. Sunlight triggers the release of melatonin from the pineal gland, which, according to M.D. Susan Paolucci, has a powerful effect on mood, sleep, sex drive and energy.
References
- Kids Health: Depression
- "Scholastic Choices" Magazine, Vol. 15, Issue 5
- Beating Depression second edition, Dr. Stefan Cembrowicz and Dr. Dorcas Kingham, 2006
- Depression FAQ's, Susan L. Paolucci MD and Stephen J. Paolucci MD, 2007
