Depression is a mental disorder characterized by an all-encompassing low mood accompanied by low self-esteem, and commonly treated with antidepressant medication with some psychotherapy or counseling.
Some of the symptoms of depression include feelings of constant sadness, irritability and hopelessness.
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Anxiety disorders are different. They can cause such distress that it interferes with a person’s ability to lead a normal life. There are many types of anxiety disorders that include panic, obsessive compulsive, post traumatic stress, social anxiety, specific phobias and generalized anxiety. Treatment for disorders usually are medication, psychotherapy and relaxation therapy.
Symptoms of anxiety are feelings of panic, fear or uneasiness; uncomfortable, obsessive thoughts; nightmares; problems sleeping; shortness of breath; muscle tension; dizziness; cold or sweaty hands/feet; repeated thoughts of flashbacks of traumatic events. What can exercise do for you?
Exercise has been known as a way to maintain physical fitness and prevent high blood pressure, diabetes and other diseases. A growing volume of research shows that exercise can also help improve symptoms of certain mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. Exercise may also help prevent a relapse after treatment for depression or anxiety.
“It is not a magic bullet, but increasing physical activity is appositive and active strategy to help manage depression and anxiety,” said Kristin Vickers-Douglas, Ph.D., a psychologist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
Exercise isn’t a cure for depression or anxiety, but its psychological and physical benefits can improve your symptoms.
The benefits of exercise for anybody include increased energy, self-esteem and mental focus.
Make exercise enjoyable by getting into the habit of doing it. Find someone to accompany you or make your fitness regime a challenging one that you can handle. Listen to music while exercising or reward yourself by being committed to a regular exercise regime and not by counting calories.
Research suggests that it may take at least 30 minutes of exercise a day for at least three to five days a week to significantly improve depression symptoms. But smaller amounts of activity, as little as 10-15 minutes at a time, can improve mood in the short term.
“Small bouts of exercise may be a great way to get started, if it is initially too hard to do at first,” Dr. Vickers-Douglas says. Exercise doesn’t replace treatment, so if you exercise regularly but depression or anxiety symptoms still interfere with you daily living, seek professional help.
INFORMATION from the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
CONNIE VOSBERG is a COTA/L at OSPTI in Breckenridge. Most of the information provided by the Mayo Clinic.
xsde wrote on Jan 9, 2010 6:56 AM: