How Does Exercise Improve Mental Health

Exercise for Mental Health

• Exercise is not only good for the body, it is good for the mind. People suffering from depression and/or anxiety in particular seem to respond well to exercise. Research quoted by the North Lincolnshire Mental Health Service showed that 83 percent of mentally ill people found that exercise put them in a better mood. Exercise is not a cure for mental health problems, but rather a tool that can be used to help a person feel better.
  There are a few theories as to why exercise benefits mental health. The theories include: an increase in self-esteem, better physical health, distraction from life problems, increased serotonin and endorphin levels, and social interaction.
  

Self-Esteem

Exercise can lead to a person having a better body image. When a person feels good about the way they look, they often feel better about themselves as a person. A lack of self-esteem can cause depression. High self-esteem can lead to healthy and positive thinking. 

Physical Health

• Regular exercise causes an increase in stamina and leads to a healthier body. When your body feels good, you feel good.
  
  

Distraction

• Like many activities, exercise provides a temporary distraction from life's problems. Sometimes a healthy distraction is good medicine for what ails the mind.
  

Social Interaction

• Exercise that takes the form of group activities or social settings can benefit a person's mood. Getting out of the house and interacting with others can combat the feelings of loneliness and isolation.
  

Serotonin Levels

• Exercise increases serotonin levels in the brain. The body releases the chemicals after sustained physical activity. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that helps the brain to function.
  

Scientific Studies

• Scientific studies have shown that exercise benefits mental health. Exercise produces antidepressant effects on the human brain that last after exercise. Regular exercise over a period of several weeks increases the antidepressant effects. Every age group and both genders benefit mentally from exercise. (Craft, 1997; Calfas & Taylor, 1994; Kugler et al., 1994; McDonald & Hodgdon, 1991; North, McCullagh, & Tran, 1990)
  

Warning

• Exercise has shown to be a valuable tool to enhance mood. While exercise is surely useful for both the body and the brain, it should not be considered a cure for mental illness. Mental health conditions can be serious. An increase in positive moods from exercise does not necessarily warrant the discontinuation of prescription medication.