Exercise and Mental Health

Dr Phil, Clinical Psychologist

Regular exercise is a powerful tool for promoting good mental health. Here are some ways that exercise can benefit your mental health:

• Exercise reduces stress by helping lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and enhances the production of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine which are natural mood boosters.
• Exercise has been linked to improvements in cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making. It may also help to prevent cognitive decline as we age.
• Exercise enhances self-esteem and confidence, which can have a positive impact on mental health. When we feel good about ourselves, we are more likely to have a positive outlook on life and feel better overall.
• Exercise provides sense of accomplishment and improves motivation and energy. Setting and achieving exercise goals can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-confidence. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are struggling with mental health issues.
• Exercise can help with weight loss and improve self-esteem.

Regular exercise is an important part of maintaining good physical and mental health. Talk to your healthcare provider today about how exercise may benefit you.