Fight Depression with Exercise

Depression can make your life miserable. You're tired and you want to stay in bed. You have no energy. The things that you used to enjoy just don't make you happy any more. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should see your doctor first. However, there are also some ways you can deal with depression on a daily basis. Though it may seem impossible, exercise is one of the best ways to deal with depression.

Exercise and Depression

Depression is one of the most common problems people experience today, but it's also very treatable with medication, therapy and other self-help options. But, have you ever considered exercise as part of your treatment? Study after study has shown that exercise is a helpful way to treat depression because it:

• Increases your sense of mastery which can help for people who don't feel in control of their lives and moods
• Increases self-esteem
• Provides a distraction from your worries
• Improves your health and body, which can help lift your mood
• Helps you get rid of built-up stress and frustration
• Helps you sleep better, which can often be a problem when you're depressed

It may seem impossible to get moving when you feel depressed but that's exactly what you have to do. No matter how tired you feel, getting up and moving around can bring some immediate relief to your symptoms and getting in a little exercise is an excellent way to work off some of that added stress you're carrying around.

Simple Steps

The problem with depression is that it makes you feel like you have no energy. Even getting out of bed can take a monumental effort, so it may be hard to imagine exercising at all when you're depressed. No matter what your thoughts are telling you, it really is possible to exercise when you're depressed. If you take some simple steps, you can add a little activity to your day to help lift your mood and work through your depression.

• Set simple goals. Set a goal to get dressed and walking around the block. Promise yourself you'll walk around the block at least 3 times that day. The next day, do more. Try to improve a little bit each day.
• Go easy on yourself. You might not be able to handle a lot of exercise, so try to feel good about what you CAN do. 
• Get outside and enjoy this great weather. Even a little bit of sunshine can help raise your mood a little. Try to get outside and get some fresh air, remind yourself how beautiful nature is. If you enjoy the gym, get on the treadmill. Even if you're not enjoying it right now, eventually you will.
• Exercise or walk with a friend. Talking to people can help raise your energy and remind you that you're not alone.
• Talk to your doctor about your treatment options and your plans to exercise. He or she may be able to refer you to someone who can help you set up an exercise program. 

Whatever you do, don't give up. You're not alone and you aren't doomed to feel this way forever. Try to participate in life as much as you can, even if it doesn't feel good. Sometimes you have to do what's right for yourself and wait for the good feelings to come later. Exercise can be a big help with your moods and the sense of accomplishment can add a new dimension to your day--something you can be proud of and feel good about.