Exercise therapy for anxiety and depression

Preview

Exercise is being viewed increasingly as effective therapy for patients who are anxious or depressed. However, a measurable therapeutic response to exercise has been difficult to prove. In part 1 of this two-part article, Dr Mellon discusses the reasons for this difficulty and reviews the literature on the therapeutic role of exercise in anxiety and depression. Part 2, beginning on page 91, examines “runner's high” and exercise addiction, the role of endorphins and enkephalins, and the notion of exercise as a form of play and presents guidelines for helping the anxious or depressed patient begin an exercise regimen.