The European Psychiatric Union (EPU) has officially endorsed exercise as part of treatment for better mental health.

This endorsement follows evidence that physical activity can improve the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Exercise and Mental Health

Research has consistently shown that exercise can have a positive impact on mental health. Exercise can reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood.

Exercise can also reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions in the future.

Physical activity has a direct effect on the brain and nervous system. It increases neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin that are involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep.

Exercise also increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps create new neural pathways and improve cognitive function.

Exercise also helps reduce the levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, which can have a negative impact on mental health when produced in excess.

Exercise has also been found to increase resilience, i.e., the ability to cope with stress and adversity.

The EPU’s Endorsement of Exercise

The EPU’s endorsement of physical activity as part of mental health treatment is a significant move towards recognizing the importance of exercise in improving mental health outcomes.

The EPU has emphasized the need for a multidisciplinary approach to mental health treatment, including exercise as part of the overall treatment plan.

According to the EPU, exercise should be considered an integral part of a person’s mental health care, and medical professionals should be trained in prescribing exercise as part of treatment.

The EPU has also called for increased awareness of the benefits of exercise for mental health, including among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public.

The Benefits of Exercise for Different Mental Health Conditions

Depression

There is substantial evidence to suggest that exercise can reduce the symptoms of depression. Exercise has been found to increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are often low in people with depression.

Furthermore, exercise has been found to increase the expression of BDNF, which can help repair and regenerate neurons damaged by depression.

Exercise can also increase social interaction, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, common in people with depression.

Aerobic exercise, such as running or swimming, has been found to be particularly effective for improving depression symptoms. However, any form of physical activity, including strength training or yoga, can have a positive impact on mood.

Anxiety

Exercise can also have a positive impact on anxiety symptoms. Anxiety is often characterized by excessive worry and fear, which can lead to physical symptoms such as trembling or sweating.

Exercise can help reduce these symptoms by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters such as GABA, which can help regulate the body’s response to stress.

Furthermore, exercise has been found to increase self-esteem and confidence, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety. Exercise can also distract from the worries or fears that may be contributing to anxiety symptoms.

Any form of physical activity can have a positive impact on anxiety symptoms, including aerobic exercise, strength training, or yoga.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression. Exercise can have a positive impact on both phases of bipolar disorder.

During manic episodes, exercise can help increase energy levels and reduce feelings of restlessness or agitation. Exercise can also help regulate sleep, which is often disrupted during manic episodes.

During depressive episodes, exercise can help improve mood and reduce feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.

Exercise can also increase social interaction, which can be particularly important during depressive episodes when social withdrawal is common.

It is important to note that exercise should be used as part of an overall treatment plan for bipolar disorder, and medical professionals should be consulted before starting an exercise program.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe mental health condition characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking.

Exercise can have a positive impact on the symptoms of schizophrenia, particularly when used in conjunction with medication and other treatments.

Exercise can help reduce negative symptoms such as social withdrawal, apathy, and reduced motivation. Exercise can also improve cognitive function, such as memory and attention, which can be impaired in people with schizophrenia.

Exercise can also improve overall physical health, which is particularly important in people with schizophrenia who may be at increased risk of developing physical health issues such as obesity or diabetes.

Conclusion

The EPU’s endorsement of exercise as part of mental health treatment is a significant step towards recognizing the importance of physical activity in improving mental health outcomes.

Research has consistently shown that exercise can have a positive impact on mental health, including reducing the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Medical professionals should be trained in prescribing exercise as part of treatment, and increased awareness of the benefits of exercise for mental health should be promoted among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public.