Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by unusual, extreme, inappropriate and sometimes unpredictable moods. Controlling the mood swings is the best way to handle this illness. Exercise has been found very effective in controlling the mood.
The basic principle is that the extra energy of a manic mood can be utilized or released through exercise and it can help a depressed mood by increasing energy through a regular exercise routine. Research shows that exercise has clear antidepressant effect. A study conducted by Duke University shows that, over a 16 week period, majorly depressed people who walked or jogged for 30 minutes 3 times a week got the same mood benefits as people who took medication. Both aerobic and non-aerobic exercises seem to be effective in mood disorders. The important factor is that it should be done at a regular in a regular time and results can be seen after about a month.
exercise helps
Exercise has the ability to enhance one’s sense of mastery. Bipolar disorder patients have moods that leave them depressed, feeling as though they have no control over their life. Thus by enhancing the sense of mastery, exercise provides them a feeling of higher self-esteem. Exercise also provides a therapeutic distraction that diverts a patient’s attention from area of worry, concern and guilt.
Exercise improves health, flexibility and weight; all of which contribute to good mood. Another benefit is that muscle activity helps in the discharge of excess energy that gathers in the form of hostility, frustration and anger. Another good reason for exercise is that it promotes a healthy sleep cycle. Disturbed sleep can cause a shift in mood so exercise and a regulated sleep pattern can improve and normalize the mood.
Exercise treatment
Even though exercise is a good mood stabilizing treatment, it must be prescribed carefully. For some patients, the symptoms of their depression may not suitable for physical activity. For example, if the bipolar disorder patient is having symptoms like lack of energy, fatigue and psychomotor retardation, prescribing exercise may not be a good option. The use of exercise in coping with bipolar disorder always depends on the symptoms of illness. The patient’s history must be considered before designing an exercise program. The specific choice of exercise should be guided by the patient’s preferences and circumstances. The activity must be pleasurable and easily added to the schedule.
