Why Exercise Is a Powerful Tool for Managing Bipolar Disorder?
Healthful Vitality | 02/08/2023 | Why Exercise Is a Powerful Tool for Managing Bipolar Disorder?
Exercise is a powerful tool for managing bipolar disorder, a mental health condition characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. Exercise can provide a range of physical and mental health benefits, making it an essential part of a comprehensive treatment plan for people with bipolar disorder.
Why exercise is a powerful tool for managing bipolar disorder?
The following are the main reasons why exercise is a powerful tool for managing bipolar disorder:
Improving Mood
Exercise is effective for depression and anxiety, two common symptoms of bipolar disorder. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which can help to improve mood and reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. In addition, exercise effectively increases the levels of other mood-enhancing chemicals, such as dopamine and serotonin, further contributing to improved mood.
Regulating Energy Levels
People with bipolar disorder often experience fluctuations in energy levels, with periods of high energy during mania and periods of low energy during the depression. Studies show exercise can help to regulate energy levels and improve overall physical and mental energy. This can help to stabilize mood swings, reducing the risk of mania and depression.
Improving Sleep
People with bipolar disorder often experience sleep disturbances, including insomnia and excessive sleepiness. Studies show exercise can effectively enhance sleep patterns and promotes more restful sleep. Regular exercise can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality, reducing the risk of sleep disturbances associated with bipolar disorder.
Reducing Stress
Bipolar disorder can be a highly stressful condition, with alternating periods of mania and depression. Research shows exercise is an effective stress management tool, helping reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health. In addition, regular physical activity can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression, further contributing to improved mental health.
Enhancing Cognitive Function
Research shows exercise can improve cognitive function, including memory and attention. True, people with bipolar disorder often experience cognitive difficulties, including memory impairment and difficulty with attention and concentration. Therefore, regular exercise can help to improve cognitive function and support overall mental health.
Improving Physical Health
People with bipolar disorder are at increased risk of physical health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Studies reveal exercise can improve physical health, reducing the risk of these and other health problems. Regular physical activity can also improve overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of injury and supporting a healthier lifestyle. However, seek the advise of your doctor before performing any type of these exercises.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exercise is a powerful tool for managing bipolar disorder. Regular physical activity can provide a range of physical and mental health benefits, helping to improve mood, regulate energy levels, improve sleep, reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and improve physical health. Therefore, people with bipolar disorder should speak to their doctor or mental health professional to determine the best type of exercise for their needs and develop a regular exercise routine as part of their overall treatment plan. It is necessary to seek the advise of your doctor before attempting to perform any type of exercise.
Related Articles:
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Difference Between Exercise and Physical Activity
Top Five Barriers to Physical Activity
How to Start and Maintain Healthy Lifestyle Habits
References:
https://www.aerfen.com/mental-health-benefits-of-regular-exercise/
https://www.lihpao.com/is-exercise-good-for-your-mind/