Exercise to Beat Depression

Did you know that one of the best ways to fight depression is with exercise? It’s true.

I have spent the last 13 years of my life in a domestic violence environment, recovering from dv and helping to protect my children from dv. This has not been an easy road and I can assure you that depression has played a very large role in my life over. Fortunately, because of my active lifestyle and the fact that I exercise in some way, shape or form, daily has helped minimize the negative effects that depression can have on people. 

What I have experienced in my journey is that often times, exercising is the last thing I feel like doing when I’m really struggling with depression. I want to crawl under the covers and come out when I feel better again. But, as a single mother of 4, that’s definitely NOT an option for me. And I know that by exercising especially when I don’t feel like it, I will actually improve my mind set and feel more hopeful, optimistic and upbeat. 

Exercise releases “feel good” hormones in our bodies. Exercise releases endorphins (you may have heard of the “runner’s high”) and seratonin, both of which help boost our moods. You will likely notice that during and after you exercise you have a generally more positive outlook on life. Use this feeling as a reminder when you’re feeling down and out to get moving even when you don’t feel like it.

Because exercise provides stress and anxiety relief, I recommend doing it daily. If you are taking prescription medications for depression, anxiety or PTSD, exercise will really enhance the effectiveness of these drugs and help your healing process. Daily exercise does not have to be anything super intense or crazy. Simply getting some kind of movement activity for 20-30 minutes each day will likely provides the benefits you need.

Look for exercises that you will enjoy doing. For me, personally, exercising outside and getting away from the busy city life and into nature is very helpful and healing for me. It rejuvenates my soul. It’s very therapeutic. Whatever it is that you like - swimming, cycling, group classes - do that. Do not force yourself to do something you don’t enjoy. And please, do not make this about weight loss. Your mental health is far more important than you weight during this time. Put your attention into healing yourself on the inside and I guarantee the outside will follow suit.

If you are not in treatment and feel that you may be clinically depressed, please contact your PCP (primary care provider) to find out about therapy and medication options. I was one of those people who was not interested in prescription medication to treat my depression/PTSD/anxiety/panic attacks (yep, I had ALL of that!) but they have made such a difference in turning my life around and getting myself healthy. Please, do not hesitate to seek help.