Physical Exercise
Why Exercise?
If you are having or have had trouble with Depression, it may be worthwhile building up your physical exercise. There’s an increasing amount of evidence showing that people who exercise regularly feel better. In fact a large general public survey found that physical exercise was rated as the most effective way of improving low mood. Those who are physically active tend to feel happier and more satisfied with their lives than those who are inactive – and this applies right through from childhood to old age. Depression is less common in people who exercise regularly in their leisure time, and exercisers seem, at least partly, to be protected from future episodes of Depression.
Research into Exercise and Depression
A number of research studies have also highlighted the value of exercise as a treatment for Depression. At times it seems to rival the effectiveness of antidepressants and of psychotherapy. In addition to all these benefits, regular exercise reduces the risk of developing major chronic diseases – such as coronary heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes – by up to 50%, and the risk of premature death by 20-30%. Despite all this, 69% of UK adults do not exercise at recommended levels. If you are affected by Depression you could seriously consider increasing the amount of exercise you take. Try to find types of exercise that you enjoy, that are accessible and that are not too difficult.
If you are interested in the research underpinning these recommendations, click on the article ‘exercise for Depression, background research’ or look at the freely downloadable 128 page report from the Department of Health by going to www.dh.gov.uk/Home/fs/en and then typing “At least five a week” into the search facility at the top of the page.
eGetting Started
Here are some places where you can get more information about exercise.
Take Life On
This Scottish website has a large section on exercise www.takelifeon.co.uk
BBC Healthy Living
The section on fitness contains both general advice on exercise, and specific advice on exercise for those who are pregnant and also for those suffering from a variety of health difficulties. In addition, they give numerous useful internet links.
www.bbc.co.uk/health/healthy_living
Oxford Bandolier Centre
There is a good downloadable six page exercise guide from this website www.jr2.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/hliving/startoex.html
Ramblers
Cycling Scotland
Scottish Swimming
Paths For Health
It may also be well worthwhile checking out the Paths for Health website at www.pathsforall.org.uk/pathstohealth/ which contains details of around 70 walking for health projects around Scotland. These projects provide regular short led walks aimed at being fun, good physically and psychologically, and an opportunity to meet others.
Sustrans
Sustrans are a sustainable transport charity. Their website has information about cycling and walking in particular.
Look OK..Feel Crap?
Read how exercise improved one person's mood