Better Health have produced a great fact sheet that discusses how exercise can help those individuals suffering from depression.  Depression effects 1 in 5 women and 1 in 8 men at some stage in their life.  Typically an individual suffering from depression will have prolonged feelings of sadness and hopelessness.  Depression is very complicated and contributing factors such as genes, environment, lifestyle, psychology and personality can play a role.

The Better Health Factsheet on Depression and Exercise states that depressed people generally only exercise about half as much of those who aren’t depressed.  Physical activity has many mental and physical benefits and regular exercise can trigger the pleasure centres within the brain and lead to feelings of wellbeing.  Exercise can also be helpful for those suffering from anxiety.  The Better Health Factsheet states that exercise can be just as effective as medication to relieve milder depression.

The Better Health Factsheet states that exercise has many benefits, ranging from:

  • Boosted self-esteem.
  • Social inclusion for those who are involved in team sports.
  • Encourages a more relaxed state of mind by burning up stress chemicals such as adrenaline.
  • Improved cardiovascular fitness.
  • Reduced risk of premature death.
  • Reduced cholesterol level.
  • Reduced blood pressure.
  • Maintenance of healthy weight.
  • Improved muscle tone.

Getting active should involve choosing something that is fun.  Get your friends and family involved so that you can motivate each other and try to exercise for 30 minutes at least two to five times per week.  To read more from this factsheet by Better Health, please click here.

This blog was written by Osteopath Heath Williams.  Heath is the director of Principle Four Osteopathy and Corporate Work Health Australia.  Principle Four Osteopathy is one of Melbourne City CBD 3000 leading Osteopathic clinics.  The clinic is located in the heart of the Melbourne CBD at 29 Somerset Place (near the corner of Little Bourke & Elizabeth St).  Appointments can be made by calling 03 9670 9290 or booking online @ www.principlefourosteopathy.com.

Corporate Work Health Australia is a nationwide Occupational Health & Safety Company that provides ergonomic and manual handling consulting, risk assessments and training.  All of our trainers and assessors are registered osteopaths and physiotherapists.  To find out more about our services, please go to www.corporateworkhealth.com.