Beating depression can require a bunch of different strategies. Some people prefer not to swallow antidepressant drugs, with their potentially unpleasant side-effects, and seek natural alternatives. Others supplement drug treatment with other measures. It’s well documented that exercise can be helpful to people suffering from depression and for some it is the answer they’ve been looking for. In fact, some studies suggest that it is just as effective as drug therapy and should be tried first, with prescription drugs the last resort.

How Exercise Helps Fight Depression:

• Scientific studies have shown that exercise releases brain chemicals that regulate and lift mood and counter the negative effects of stress.
• Many sufferers from depression are plagued by a lack of energy. Exercise and increased physical fitness boost energy levels and make getting on with life that much easier.
• Increased physical fitness can lead to weight loss and other improvements in physical appearance. Since many victims of depression feel worthless and unattractive, this can clearly boost their confidence and self-esteem.
• Depressed people often tend to withdraw from relationships with other people and from the world. An exercise program that gets people out of the house can make a world of difference. A sport or exercise regime that involves social interactions can be affirming, diverting and all-round rewarding.
• Exercise helps with the sleep and appetite problems that sufferers from depression typically experience.
• Depressed people often lose sight of what is important to them. Everything seems difficult or unachievable and motivation levels plummet. Taking up a sport can help with setting goals and, when they are reached and surpassed, with helping people to feel motivated again and more satisfied with themselves.
• Sometimes depression arises in part from a preceding unhealthy lifestyle. Getting enough exercise and optimizing physical health is a lifestyle overhaul that has preventive as well as remedial value.

Exercise is beneficial for more than just looking good. It can elevate endorphin levels and your mood.