In recent years the conversation around mental health has expanded beyond traditional medication and therapy to include more holistic and lifestyle-based interventions. Exercise Physiology is an emerging field in this regard, with severe implications for the treatment of mental health conditions and mental illness. Exercise Physiology involves the study of the body’s responses and adaptions to physical activity. It has emerged as a powerful aid or even alternative to traditional prescription medications for the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.

Chronic physical health conditions which can reduce life expectancy such as:

• Cardiovascular Disease
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Metabolic Syndrome

The risk of mortality is increased 2-3-fold in conjunction with a mental health condition.

Mental health and substance abuse is also the 4^th largest contributor to total disease burden according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics of that 88% is considered non-fatal burden (living with disability). What does this mean? That in addition to large reductions in life expectancy, poorer quality of life and reduced functioning is also associated with mental health conditions.

Exercise is already a key element of treatment for several chronic physical health conditions but its effect on mental health is less commonly known. The concepts of neuroplasticity: improving neural pathways based on learning and neuroprotection: protecting existing pathways and reducing neurodegeneration are both key components of exercise physiology in the treatment of neurological clients.

Using exercise as a treatment for mental health conditions can lessen the reliance on antipsychotic medications, which often have adverse side effects, some of these include:

• Weight gain and the risk of obesity
• Increased feelings of fatigue/tiredness
• Reduced cardiovascular health
• Developing metabolic conditions such as type II diabetes.

All of which can contribute to diminished quality of life and a possible shortened lifespan (Laursen et al., 2012). In fact, exercise has been shown to be as effective as pharmacologic treatment with reductions in depressive symptoms observed from exercising 30 minutes, three times per week at moderate intensity (Blumenthal et., 2007).

The mechanism by which exercise has been shown to provide cognitive improvements is a protein known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the levels BDNF increase after exercise. A major contributor to the processes of learning and memory formation, BDNF signaling pathways are enhanced by physical activity. BDNF levels are especially important for conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, the former is associated with low levels of BDNF and the latter, helping to combat the neurodegenerative effects of the disease, protecting brain cells and providing crucial neurological adaptions to learning and memory.

When we exercise the hypothalamus and pituitary gland release neurotransmitters known as endorphins, that carry signals between nerve cells throughout the body. These are the chemical used to regulate our response to pain or stress, and increase feelings of wellbeing.

Other neurotransmitters released during exercise include serotonin which can affect mood, cognition, sleep and digestion, and dopamine affecting motivation, movement and pleasure.

Several conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, and sleep disruption are linked to low levels of these neurotransmitters. Exercising regularly can empower individuals to better self-manage their conditions, increase self-efficacy, overall well-being and enhance quality of life

Incorporating exercise into treatment plans can lead to improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for individuals with a variety of mental health conditions. So, if you’re interested in learning how exercise can help you manage your condition. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment plan.

Our experienced physiotherapists and exercise physiologists are here to help you find the right program for you.

Call us now on (02) 4721 1222 or book an appointment online.