Enjoy the Benefits of Exercise when dealing with Depression

Depression is not just the feeling of sadness or a short period of feeling ‘low’. It is a health condition and it changes lives. It has a serious impact mentally and physically on those who experience it, as well as on loved ones around them. Some of the more common symptoms of depression include fatigue, having a lack of motivation to do anything including looking after yourself, being withdrawn from people and life. Understandably people suffering from depression find it very hard to do things like regular exercise despite knowing it is something they need. 

Over 4 million people in Australia were living with mental illnesses like anxiety and depression and that was before the pandemic! What a physio Floreat or a doctor will tell you though is even just taking a 30-minute walk a day can help with the onset of such symptoms, and as such can be used as part of a preventative approach. 

When you exercise your body releases your ‘happy’ chemicals!

Serotonin is released when you get moving and this is an important neurotransmitter as it helps with things like regulating your appetite, your mood, your libido and other crucial functions of the brain. Exercise also helps boost endorphin levels in the brain, also known for mood-lifting. It is part of why people who exercise regularly talk about that rush they feel after a great workout.

Boosting energy levels and overall health

As mentioned, depression causes low energy levels and adds to any lack of motivation you have. As a result, people with depression not only decline in general fitness and health, they can gain weight and suffer other physical problems. A physio West Perth can help with this. With exercise just a few times a week you digest better, lose weight, gain energy, sleep better and that can help with depression and anxiety as well as other physical issues like heart disease and diabetes.

Implementing a prevention plan

• Taking the first step is the hardest thing to do but once you do it, the next ones are easier.
• Start with small things, take the dog for a walk instead of having a family member do it, park away from the shops and walk to them.
• Develop a community of people who will support you, not judge you.
• Organise exercise or routines to do with other friends who want to start as well. See a physio Floreat to help with your plan.

Let a physio help in a number of ways

It is quite remarkable how much a little exercise sustained regularly can help with someone battling depression. Another way you can get started is seeing a physio West Perth. With the right people around you there is more of a chance that you will see the results and stick with it. You should also be sure to talk to your doctor and get their help too. This may involve medication and it may involve talking to a professional.