Very interesting study reported in the Telegraph from Bristol and Exeter University’s that is contra to received wisdom, concerning exercise and mental health. We are led to believe that prescription of exercise for depression is a given thing. And yet this study suggests that it makes no difference at all for people with clinical or mild depression.
My own experience is that exercising to reduce anxiety actually made me worse if I was anxious at the time of exercise. I believe it has to be taken in conjunction with a certain attitude towards why I am doing it to start with. And it is in the mental attitude toward things (as well as the unknown causes of mental health problems) that dictates things isn’t it? Therefore exercise on its own is not as powerful tool as made out to be.
I am not denying its benefits. I am only suggesting that if your screwed up, a jog around the block is not going to change things.
I have found though, that once the corner is turned regarding the struggle with mental health issues, that exercise is a powerful feel good tool.
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