The term schizophrenia defines a group of brain disorders that can cause hallucinations, delusional thinking and behavioral abnormalities. According to MayoClinic.com, the word schizophrenia means "split mind." Individuals with a form of schizophrenia interpret reality differently. This is a chronic mental condition that tends to worsen over time. While exercise alone is not enough to control the illness, it is a positive way to lessen some of the side effects and symptoms.
Psychomotor Agitation
Those suffering from schizophrenia will exhibit psychomotor agitation, activity triggered by anxiety. Movements vary but can include pacing, squeezing of the hands and dressing and undressing repeatedly. Any action that becomes repetitious would fall into this category. Exercise can serve as a distraction for those who exhibit psychomotor agitation. A person can be taught to exchange potentially harmful behavior, such as tearing at skin, into a positive movement, such as jogging in place. The agitation comes from stress and exercise helps to relieve tension and relax the mind.
Depression
Schizophrenics lose the ability to make plans and express emotions, such as joy. Northwestern University's Medill Reports Chicago website states this lack of emotion often is construed as depression and can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. According to Medill, those with schizophrenia fall into a cycle of weight gain and lack of exercise. Schizophrenics benefit from structure and routine. A scheduled exercise program will help organize thoughts and increase activity levels to fight weight gain.
Chronic Illness
An affect of a sedentary lifestyle is chronic illness. Exercising on a regular basis increases overall health. This is vital for those with schizophrenia. The tendency to avoid exercise can reduce the ability of the immune system to fight off infection and illness. By increasing activity, you boost the immune system and stave off colds, bronchitis and viral infection.
Considerations
Exercise should be seen as a tool to help manage the condition, but is not a cure. Schizophrenia is a complicated mental illness that requires treatment including psychotherapy, a support system and drug protocols. The symptoms of the illness typically begin in the late teens or early 20s. Individuals develop disorganized behavior, delusions, difficulty speaking and unpredictable agitation. Do not rely solely on exercise to manage schizophrenia. If someone you know exhibits symptoms, they require medical diagnosis and treatment.
