Maintaining Your Mental Health

Studies have suggested a clear relationship between exercise and positive mood. Clinical studies have determined that exercise has the biggest mental health impact for people who are depressed or anxious. There is also benefit for people who are stressed but it may have a protective effect for those who are at risk for emotional distress.

Other studies have shown that the exercise required for mental health benefit does not have to be the three 20-minute sessions required to improve heart health. Improvements in mental health come from any form of physical activity whether it is aerobic or non-aerobic in nature and whether it is done all at once or in small spurts.