$Unique_ID{BRK01262}
$Pretitle{Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{Exercise as a Prescription for Depression?}
$Subject{depression exercise}
$Volume{E-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Exercise as a Prescription for Depression?


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QUESTION:  I gather from my reading that exercise is helpful in a lot of
situations, but I can scarcely believe that a respected doctor would offer it
as a prescription for depression.  My doctor insists that a regular schedule
of walking will help me.  Is he stringing me along or something?

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ANSWER:  Over the last ten years, health professionals have been pleased to
find that people who do regular exercise report significant reductions in
anxiety and depression, improved sleep and appetite, better concentration and
even better academic performance.
     There are several reasons that doctors are combining or replacing
exercise therapy with older approaches to treat depressed patients.  Old
treatments include the use of anti-depressant drugs, shock therapy, and sleep
deprivation.  Research shows that exercise increases oxygen uptake, improving
circulation and allowing more oxygen to reach the brain.
     Exercisers with higher oxygen levels have shown significantly lower
anxiety and depression levels when compared with sedentary control groups.
Another factor is that depression is characterized by prolonged sadness,
inactivity, dullness, a feeling of helplessness and loss of control.  With
exercise, people gain a sense of mastery and achievement.  They feel they are
doing something positive for themselves and by being able to do something for
themselves, there is a renewed feeling that they can control at least some
parts of their lives.  No pill could have that effect!
     People who embark on exercise programs start to feel better because their
cardiovascular systems are in better condition.  Blood pressure goes down, and
so does body weight.  People can actually feel and see their lives improving.
Vigorous aerobic exercise also encourages the body's production of a natural
morphine-like substance called endorphins, which have been linked to feelings
of well-being.
     Why introduce medication which can have side-effects into the body when a
brisk walk can lift the spirit and have many other positive effects?  Give
your doctor's prescription a chance, I think you will be very surprised at the
help it can offer.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
