There are many different ways in which exercise impacts the brain. Research shows numerous ways in which exercise can help have a positive impact on mental illness and well-being. These impacts elevate the mood while decreasing the effects of stress, anxiety, and depression.

How are mental illness and activity levels related?

The less activity acquired, the more likely one is to suffer from low mood/depression and tension or worry. Decreased activity levels can also lead to decreased focus and concentration, decreased energy levels, lower self-esteem, and decreased capability of coping. This works in a negative cycle.

The opposite is true for increased activity levels. For those that keep active, they are less likely to have depression, anxiety and tension. They have increased self-esteem, they tend to sleep better which increases energy, they are able to concentrate and focus better, and are able to cope in a healthier manner. All of these are helpful in dealing with stress specifically when stress has depleted energy and ability to focus. Activity can then turn into a positive cycle.

Some studies have shown that about 5 minutes of exercise can begin to create anti-anxiety effects. The recommended amount of exercise is at least 3 days a week for 30 minutes at a moderate intensity. The 30 minutes can be divided into 10 minutes segments. This should be cardio exercise which includes a repetitive activity that uses the large muscles of the body and sustains an increased heart rate throughout the duration of the activity. Examples would be swimming, biking, rowing machines, the elliptical, running, jogging, walking, aerobics, mowing the lawn, etc.

Areas to address when beginning a program:

When starting an exercise program, begin slowly and progress slowly to decrease the chances of injury and to increase adherence to the program. Even though exercise can’t cure or negate all symptoms related to mental illness, the benefits associated exercise can be an additional, or at times alternative, treatment option.