Depression and Exercise

What is depression?

Depression is a common condition and potentially debilitating condition characterised by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure and feelings of guilt or low self-esteem. Depression can affect sleep, appetite and concentration. On-going fatigue can also manifest with signs of depression.

Symptoms of depression may occur alone, or concurrently with chronic illness, such as disease or subsequent chronic injury. Major depression is associated with an increased likelihood of early mortality, primarily due to Cardiometabolic disease.

Why is physical activity or exercise important in the management of depression?

Research has proven that even undertaking some forms of low level activity or exercise are likely to lower symptoms of depression and likely to lower future episodes of depression. Exercise may be as effective as psychological or pharmaceutical therapies for some individuals.

Physical activity and exercise are well-established strategies for weight management, improving diabetes control and reducing the impact of cardiovascular disease that often occurs in mental illness including depression.

How do I commence an exercise program?

Speak to our Exercise Physiologist and book in an initial consultation, the research suggests that your Exercise Physiologist will design an aerobic (endurance) based program as this likely to be more beneficial. However the exercise program will be based on what the client wants and their desires.

In addition group exercise programs have been proven to be quite successful with this clinical population. The socialising with group training is a great enhancement to overall positive outlook on life.

Exercise Physiology in Melbourne with an accredited exercise physiologist (AEP). Accreditation as an exercise physiologist is the mark of an experienced and qualified health professional who knows exactly how to help treat clients that suffer from various forms of depression.

Exercise is a great way of helping depression and our experienced Exercise Physiologists at Moonee Valley Health and Fitness achieve the best results possible for our clients by adopting a holistic approach to rehabilitation

We assist you to achieve and sustain positive health and lifestyle changes through specialist exercise interventions. Our team specialise in delivering structured and personalised exercise sessions. The aims of our interventions are to prevent acute or manage subacute or chronic disease or injury, and assist in restoring your optimal physical function, health or wellness.