The University of Alabama at Birmingham conducted a study on the Effect of Exercise Training on Depressive Symptoms on Patients with a Chronic Illness. What was the conclusion of the study? The conclusion was that exercise reduces depressive symptoms in patients with a chronic illness. The results of the study were that exercise does not just mildly reduce the symptoms but it SIGNIFICANTLY reduces depressive symptoms. Exercise training produced the greatest antidepressant effects in patients with mild to moderate depressive symptoms.
The study did not state the specific type of exercise training the patients participated in but, according to the Mayo Clinic, a well-rounded fitness training program includes the following elements: aerobic fitness, muscular fitness, stretching, core exercises and balance training.
I know first hand how exercise helps me in maintaining my health both physically and mentally. Exercise is one of the elements in my personal treatment plan that helps me manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Of course, before starting any exercise program you should consult with your physician. Many of you already know of the benefits of exercise. It may not always be easy to incorporate exercise into a busy, hectic lifestyle but it is well worth taking the time to do so. If you are interesting in reading more on how exercise reduces the symptoms of depression, below is the link for the University of Alabama at Birmingham study. The benefits of exercise are great so I encourage you to do your best to make exercise a regular part of your life.