Friday, June 29, 2007

Dealing With Depression

So, Everyone has had days where they were feeling a little "blue". We all have been "down in the dumps" or felt "blah" or "blase" about things other than the Titanic (If you know what Im talking about you get MAJOR MEGA points!) haha.

But when these feelings last longer than a couple weeks you may be suffering from depression. Depression affects 10 million Americans each year and it's estimated that 1 in 4 adults will have at least one depressive episode in their lifetime.

A lot of people use escapism, and delve into the world of substance abuse. But recent studies at the MAYO clinic have shown, that Exercise can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety, and even small amounts of exercise helps.

Some evidence suggests that exercise positively affects the levels of certain mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Exercise may also boost feel-good endorphins, release tension in muscles, help you sleep better and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases body temperature, which may have calming effects. All of these changes in your mind and body can improve such symptoms as sadness, anxiety, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger, self-doubt and hopelessness.

If you exercise regularly but depression or anxiety still impairs your daily functioning, seek professional help. Exercise isn't meant to replace medical treatment of depression or anxiety.

I have known personally several people dealing with depression related issues, and I am always encouraging them to get out and move! It is so important to have that in your life everyday, whether you face depression or not.

JJM

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