Exercise vs Medication for mental health
The effectiveness of exercise in managing mental health conditions has again revealed that engaging in regular physical activity proves to be more beneficial in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, compared to relying solely on medications.
Exercise as a cost-effective and accessible intervention for improving mental well-being is being consistently shown. While medications can play a vital role in treating mental health disorders, exercise offers additional advantages. Physical activity not only helps alleviate symptoms but also contributes to overall physical health and well-being.
By incorporating exercise into daily routines, individuals can potentially experience improvements in their mental health. Considering exercise as a complementary or alternative approach to traditional medication-based treatments, promotes a holistic approach to managing mental health. This study highlights the fast acting nature of short term exercise programs, 12 weeks or less especially, being the most effective in alleviating negative mental health symptoms.
Moreover, the accessibility of exercise makes it an attractive option for many individuals. Unlike medications, which can sometimes come with side effects and financial burdens, engaging in physical activity is often more affordable and has minimal adverse consequences. New research emphasises the need to raise awareness about the benefits of exercise for mental health and encourages individuals to incorporate regular physical activity into their lifestyles.
This new study out of South Australia underscores the positive impact of exercise on mental health and suggests that exercise can be more effective than medications alone in managing mental health conditions. By recognising the potential of exercise and integrating it into daily routines, individuals can take a proactive step towards improving their mental well-being.
Reading:
https://www.unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2023/exercise-more-effective-than-medicines-to-manage-mental-health/