The relationship between exercise and mental health
- Article
- 2023-05-30
"For example, there seems to be a link showing that if everyone got enough exercise, the number of cases of depression could potentially be reduced by as much as 20 percent."
As co-editor of the book Lifestyle Psychiatry, the health psychologist has summarized the knowledge about the link between exercise and mental health.
"Extensive research has been done on the relationship between depression, anxiety and lifestyle behavior. And this connection appears to be strong," says Deenik. "It's important to note here that the greatest effects are seen with moderately intense exercise, with increased breathing or heart rate."
Not everyone likes sports Both the Health Council and the WHO advise adults to engage in moderately intensive physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week (an average of 60 minutes per day for children).
"Sports is an excellent way to comply with this guideline, but not everyone likes it. Walking and cycling are also healthy and popular alternatives," says Van der Ploeg. "It is important to realize that the greatest health benefits can be achieved by exercising, even if only a little, compared to no moderately intensive exercise at all. Of course, the aim is to meet the guidelines."
Deenik agrees. He also stresses the importance of breaking up with prolonged sitting as recommended in the exercise guidelines.
Not a substitute for therapy or medication It is important to note that simply increasing exercise cannot prevent or cure mental illness. Rather, it should be a supplement and not a substitute for any medication or therapy.
However, it is true that exercise can improve cognitive functions and provide a better quality of life. Deenik notes that people generally feel better when they exercise regularly and do it with others.
"In people who suffer from anxiety or depression, we see a protective effect or a decrease in complaints after just 60 minutes of exercise," says Deenik. "That's not even half of the recommended guideline. This is because the guideline mainly focuses on physical problems."
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