Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that in any 2-week period about 5.4 percent of Americans ages 12 and older are experiencing depression. There are varying degrees of depression, ranging from severe to mild. Yet one of the most effective treatments for depression costs little and doesn't require insurance, a prescription or a diagnosis.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression is a condition that describes a myriad of symptoms a person may be experiencing. Some of the most common symptoms are change in mood, weight gain or loss, decrease in desire to be social, sleeping too much or not enough, decrease in energy, feelings of sadness, hopelessness or disinterest. If you believe you are experiencing depression you should see your physician to discuss your symptoms.
Typical Depression Therapies
Many people who experience depression are put on antidepressant medications. Others seek interpersonal or group therapies. Your physician may suggest dietary changes along with exercise. While depression is a difficult condition to cure there are many effective treatments for an individual to pursue.
Why Depression Is So Difficult to Treat
Depression is difficult to treat because there are many medications and therapies, but none of them are guaranteed to work for a particular individual. There is much trial and error when treating depression because what works for one person may not work for another. Another factor is that there may be many reasons for someone to be experiencing depression, including physiological changes in the brain, endocrine irregularities or events in a person's life.
Cardiovascular Exercise for Depression Aleviation
The key to using cardiovascular exercise for alleviating depression symptoms is to find an activity you like and that will get your heart pumping. Running, elliptical machines, biking, walking outside, group exercise classes and swimming are examples of exercises that may give you relief from depression symptoms. Low-impact and relaxing exercise like yoga and pilates also have been effective for many people.
Why Working Out is so Effective
Working out is effective for alleviating depression because when you get your heart rate up and exert yourself your brain releases chemicals that naturally make you feel good. Also, the increase in body temperature can make you more relaxed. While you work out immune system chemicals that have been linked to depression are decreased in the blood. Additionally, working out gives you more confidence, distracts you from your stresses and can provide a social outlet. When you workout you look, walk, talk and feel better.
