Physical activity and mental health

Physical activity and mental health

Physical activity and mental health

Physical activity plays a crucial role in our overall health, including our mental health. The effects of regular exercise on mental health are well documented, ranging from improving mood to reducing the risk of certain mental illnesses. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how physical activity affects mental health and why it's important to be active regularly.

The connection between physical activity and mental health

Researchers have consistently found that people who exercise regularly or are otherwise physically active tend to have better mental health than their inactive counterparts. For example, a recently published meta-analysis of 23 studies found a positive effect of exercise on reducing depression in adults (Schuch et al., 2018).

One reason for this may be that exercise stimulates the brain to release endorphins - natural painkillers and mood enhancers. This so-called “runner’s high” can lead to instant satisfaction and positive emotions. In addition, physical exertion such as cardio training can also reduce stress hormones.

Positive effects of physical activity on mental health

Reducing stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety are widespread psychological problems in our society today. Fortunately, exercise can help mitigate these negative effects. A 2013 study found that regular exercise can lead to a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms (Ströhle et al., 2013). Additionally, physical activity has also been found to lower cortisol levels – a hormone associated with stress.

Improved sleep

Another positive effect of physical activity on mental health is improving sleep. Regular exercise can help improve the quality of sleep and prevent sleep disorders. A healthy night's sleep, in turn, has a positive effect on our mood and general well-being.

Increasing self-esteem and self-esteem

Physical activity also helps increase our self-esteem. When we advocate for our bodies and see progress, we can develop increased self-esteem. People with healthy self-esteem often have better mental health in general.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ask:How much exercise is needed to have positive mental health effects?

Answer:The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults aged 18 to 64 do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. However, greater amounts of exercise may be required for even better results.

Ask:What type of exercise is best for mental health?

Answer:Different types of exercise have different mental health benefits. Aerobic exercise such as jogging or cycling, for example, can trigger runner's high and help reduce stress. Strength training can also have positive effects on mental health by helping to increase self-esteem.

Conclusion

Physical activity plays an important role in promoting good mental health. Regular exercise and general physical activity can have a positive impact on managing stress, anxiety and depression. They also improve sleep and promote increased self-esteem and self-esteem.

It is important to note that regular physical activity is only one part of a healthy lifestyle. Other factors such as a balanced diet, adequate rest and social support are also crucial to maintaining good mental health.

Sources:
– Schuch, F. B., Vancampfort, D., Rosenbaum, S., Richards, J., Ward, P. B., & Stubbs, B. (2018). Exercise improves physical and psychological quality of life in people with depression: A meta-analysis including the evaluation of control group response. Psychiatry research, 271, 737-747.
– Ströhle A. (2013). Physical activity on prescription for depression: rationale and design of the SoBeFit trial.
Clinical trials (London), 10(5), 767-778.