Working Out and Mental Health
Activity leads to a leaner, healthier body. But how much do we really talk about how physical activity affects our mental health. Exercise along with individual therapy helps move you along in the process of emotional regulation as well as a heightened self-esteem. Research now supports what many therapists have known for years – that working out leads to better psychological health.
It’s true that many people participate in physical activity in order to maintain their muscle mass, for a trimmer self, for weight loss or for cardio health. All of these reasons for working out make absolute sense. They provide great results for the individuals participating in the activities.
However, you don’t see or hear advertisements talking about how much exercise benefits your mental health. The drug companies push medication for treating depression and anxiety. These companies don’t say that exercise doesn’t help rather they just don’t mention that in some studies exercise and individual therapy can be as beneficial as some medication regimes. I’m not suggesting here that you dump your meds for marathon training. I would never go against what your doctor has recommended for your treatment. Instead, I’m suggesting that if you’re not already on meds why not try a different route and begin exercising along with individual therapy.
If you already work out I’m sure you’ve experienced the endorphin “high” that can be experienced after a hard workout. This reaction highlights how much a good work out can lift your mood. The positive emotional effects are more than just a one- time response; rather, regular exercise has positive long term implications for one’s mood.
Working out helps ameliorate depression, anxiety and anger alike. The added energy boost helps us face difficult emotional tasks with more energy and a clearer mind. Working out helps to externalize the more intense emotions we feel like anger and anxiety. Physical activity along with individual counseling also helps brighten moods for those who struggle with depression.
The benefits of working out often lasts for the remainder of the day. It can also help us sleep more deeply at night which also assists in mood control. Physical activity in addition with individual therapy works extremely well.
When physical activity isn’t enough to help you deal with your anxiety, depression or other troublesome emotions try adding individual therapy to your weekly schedule. Don’t hesitate to seek help. Call Dr. Goschi today to schedule your first individual therapy appointment at barbara@drgoschi.com or (312)595-1787.