26 May 2023

The Amazing Benefits That Regular Exercise can Have on Your Mental Health

Nowadays, most people know how important an active lifestyle is for maintaining physical health. However, did you know that exercise can also be hugely beneficial for your mental health? Well, it’s true!! Engaging in regular physical activity can significantly influence your mood, your thinking ability, and your overall mental health in an extremely positive way. 

 

Did you Know… The University of South Australia recently published a study showing that regular exercise is 1.5 times more effective in managing depression than all leading medications. Also, they found that all different types of exercise can be helpful, including running, weight training, pilates, yoga, or simply going for a walk.  

 

How Does Exercise Reduce Stress?    

When you exercise your brain produces chemicals called endorphins. These can be thought of as “feel good” neurotransmitters which help elevate our mood and provide us with a feeling of relaxation and calm during and/or after a workout. Exercise also reduces our body’s stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This can help us to cope with stressful situations by building our mental resilience.  

 

What are the Benefits of Regular Exercise?  

  • Exercise can improve your mood and help reduce stress, as well as the risk of anxiety and depression.
  • Performing difficult physical tasks/activities gives you the chance to push and challenge yourself. This can allow you to overcome challenges which, in turn, can result in increased self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of personal development and growth. 
  • When you have a good exercise routine and your body feels healthy, you are far more likely to have a generally positive and optimistic outlook towards life. 
  • Your fitness and overall physical health will likely improve which can reduce the risk of health issues, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. It can even help improve your sleep and lower the risk of dementia by up to 30%! Isn’t that crazy?!? 
  • Exercising can help improve your brain functioning in numerous areas, including memory and your ability to learn new skills.  

So, the next time you’re feeling down or a bit stressed, stop and ask yourself… “When did I last exercise?” 

Trust me, you’d be amazed the difference getting some exercise can make to your mood, your ability to deal with stress, and your overall sense of happiness and positivity. 

If you are persistently struggling with stress, mood and your overall mental health, please reach out to a trusted professional for support. 

 

How to Access a Psychologist at CQ Psych Services:

  • Contact us directly by calling 07 4972 6929 or email admin@cqpsychservices.com.au
  • Ask your GP or health professional to refer you to our clinic.
  • Come in and see our friendly staff at Shop 1 & 2, 13 Tank Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.
  • Visit our website and complete a ‘Request an Appointment’ form and one of our friendly staff will reply to your enquiry. Website: https://cqpsychservices.com.au/

Author: Tom Grainger

Provisional Psychologist