ISLAMABAD: A new study has found that physical exercise is greatly beneficial for decreasing mental health symptoms as compared to medication.
With growing mental health stats, the study could be a positive implementation into treatments. The study was published in February in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
According to WHO, mental health affects 1 in 8 people worldwide. Mental health costs the world economy approximately $2.5 trillion annually, which is expected to rise to $6 trillion by 2030.
During the coronavirus pandemic, the WHO found that the number of people suffering from anxiety rose by 26 percent, and cases of major depressive disorder rose by 28 percent.
Carlo Celotti, the owner of All In One Strength and Conditioning, recalls how members reported the detrimental impact on their mental health from lack of access to the gym.
He said, “We had an increase of new members who all reported that their mental health suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic, and they wanted to use exercise to improve it.”
Critical factors in treating mental health
Researchers recommend structured exercise interventions as a critical factor in treating mental health conditions.
The individuals were then assessed for anxiety, depression, and psychological distress.
Participants ranged from mental health conditions, individuals with various chronic diseases, and healthy individuals.
The addition of exercise had a higher positive impact on anxiety, depression, and psychological distress than usual care – across all populations.
The most significant benefits were observed by those with depression, post and pre-natal individuals, healthy individuals, and people diagnosed with kidney and HIV disease.
All types of physical activities, including walking, Pilates, yoga, and resistance training, were beneficial.
One type of exercise showed the most significant improvement in mental health symptoms.
It is important to note that researchers do not suggest that counseling or medication is irrelevant; they suggest that physical activity is a critical factor in treatment.
