Does Exercise Have the Ability to Help Relieve Anxiety?

Anxiety is the most commonly diagnosed mental health condition in Australia.

According to Beyond Blue, it is estimated that approximately 45% of Australians will experience a mental health condition in their life time. 

Beyond Blue also report that  “In any one year, around 1 million Australian adults have depression, and over 2 million have anxiety”. 

What are some signs and symptoms to look out for?

Signs and symptoms differ from person to person, and may develop slowly over time making them not too obvious to spot. 

It is important to remember that it is normal to feel anxiety during periods of stress or hard times. 

However, a person with diagnosed anxiety may feel anxious more often than not, more frequently and more intensely. 

Some common signs of anxiety include:

• Physical: pain attacks, hot flushes, increased heart rate, quick breathing, restlessness or feeling tight through the chest. 

• Psychological: Excessive and frequent fear, worry, overthinking and catastrophizing. 

• Behavioural: Avoiding certain situations or people that make the individual feel anxious, fearful or worried. 

Can exercise help?

If you suffer from Anxiety it is important you speak with the appropriate Health Professional to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment specific to your needs. 

Once you have spoken with your Health Professional, it may likely be recommended that you consider engaging in regular physical activity and exercise (if you don’t already). It may also be recommended you commence exercise under the guidance of an Exercise Physiologist. 

Research strongly shows that exercise has the ability to help reduce the severity of mental health conditions such as anxiety and improve overall wellbeing. 

How?

• Regular exercises boosts and regulates certain chemicals and hormones that improve mood and levels of happiness. 

• Regular exercise helps regulate normal sleep patterns.

• Regular exercise helps improve and boost energy levels.

• Regular exercise provides a sense of achievement and can help create a sense of community and belonging.

How much exercise should you be doing?

It is recommended that the average Australian adult aim for 150 minutes of exercise per week. However, this may not be achievable for all, and that is okay! 

The main thing is that you aim to do something small, each day. Even a 10 minute walk up and down the drive way can help! 

Find something you enjoy, and stick with it. Whether this be walking, riding, swimming or weightlifting. Any kind of physical activity has the potential to help! 

If you are new to exercise, consider talking to an Exercise Physiologist who can create an individual program specific to your needs. From there, it is about remaining as consistent and finding something you enjoy!