How Walking Can Help with Depression
If you're struggling with depression, know that you're not alone. It's a common and serious mental health disorder that causes feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, regular exercise can help reduce depression symptoms. And what could be more convenient or free than a simple walk?
This article describes how walking can help with depression.
1. Walking can help to reduce stress and anxiety
Walking can take the edge off of stress and anxiety. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, a brisk walk can clear your head and calm your nerves. Walking can also reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart and tightness in your chest. If you’re walking outdoors, you’ll also get the added bonus of fresh air and vitamin D from the sun.
2. Walking can boost your mood and improve your outlook
Studies have shown that walking can improve mood and reduce depression. Walking can also help you to see the world in a new light. Walking releases feel-good chemicals in your brain called endorphins, which can help to boost your mood and alleviate anxiety and stress. When you’re feeling down, a change of scenery can make all the difference.
3. Walking can give you a sense of accomplishment
When dealing with depression, it can be hard to motivate yourself to do anything. Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that doesn’t require a lot of effort, and it has the potential to be a big mood booster. When you decide to go for a walk, you’re taking control of your mental health. Each step you take is a step in the right direction.
4. Walking can help you to connect with nature
Spending time in nature has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress. If you live in an urban area, make an effort to walk in a park or green space. Even a few minutes in nature can help to boost your mood. One study found that people who walked in nature had lower levels of rumination (a type of negative thinking common in depression) and greater feelings of vitality and rejuvenation.
5. Walking can be a social activity
Depression can make you want to isolate yourself from others. Walking can help to reverse this trend by providing opportunities for social interaction. If you’re feeling isolated, take a walk with a friend or loved one. Walking with others can help you to feel more connected and less alone. Walking can also allow you to talk to your loved ones at a relaxed pace and in your own time, which can initiate healing.
When you’re depressed, motivating yourself to do anything can be hard. But sometimes, just getting out of the house and going for a walk can make a big difference. Walking can help reduce depression symptoms, and it’s free, easy, and doesn’t require any special equipment. Of course, walking isn’t a cure for depression. But it can set you on the right path.
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If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog, website or in any linked materials. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or call for emergency medical help on the nearest telephone immediately. Community Behavioral Health offers talk therapy and medication management services for adults, teens, and children, including Spanish-speaking customers.
