Enhancing Mental Health through Exercise: The Role of Exercise Physiologists

Are you finding it difficult to make progress or maintain momentum with your mental health clients? With nearly 2 in 5 Australians aged 16–85 years experiencing a mental disorder at some time in their life, the role of non-pharmacological interventions has never been more critical (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

Exercise physiology is pivotal in managing psychological injuries and enhancing mental health. The growing recognition of non-pharmacological interventions in mental health care underscores the importance of lifestyle modifications, which, as recommended by The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, should be supported as part of Step 0 in mental health treatment.

The Science Behind Exercise and Mental Health

Numerous studies highlight the therapeutic benefits of exercise for mental health:

• Release of Endorphins: Recent reviews emphasise that exercise significantly boosts mental health by stimulating the release of endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters. This enhances overall mood and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety (Heissel, 2023; Rebar et al., 2015).
• Reduction of Stress Hormones: Regular physical activity effectively reduces levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, contributing to lower stress and anxiety levels. This biochemical response is linked to the positive mental health benefits observed with consistent exercise (Ashdown-Franks et al., 2021; Wegner et al., 2014).
• Improved Sleep Quality: Exercise has been consistently shown to improve sleep quality, which is crucial for mental well-being and cognitive function. Better sleep patterns resulting from regular physical activity significantly enhance overall mental health (Duncan et al., 2022).

Why Refer to Exercise Physiologists?

Referring your clients to exercise physiologists can make a significant impact:

• Stress Hormone Reduction: Physical activity lowers cortisol levels, which helps alleviate stress and anxiety.
• Endorphin Release: Exercise boosts the release of endorphins, improving mood and providing a natural antidepressant effect.
• Better Sleep: Regular exercise enhances sleep quality, improving overall mental health.
• Boost Brain Function: Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promoting neurogenesis and enhancing cognitive function.
• Reduction of Mental Health Symptoms: Regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
• Combating Loneliness and Isolation: Participating in exercise fosters opportunities for social interaction and support, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Tips for Incorporating Exercise into Daily Routines

• Routine Building: Incorporating regular exercise into daily routines helps build momentum, boost self-esteem, and provide a sense of control. This consistent routine can significantly enhance mental health by promoting structure and stability (Singh, 2021).
• Less Stigma: Exercise is often more socially acceptable and carries less stigma than other treatments. This acceptability can encourage individuals to engage more freely in physical activity, leading to better mental health outcomes (Heissel, 2023).
• Multi-Modal Benefits: Exercise offers multiple benefits, including physical health improvements and mood enhancement. Tailoring activities to what clients enjoy can maximise these benefits (Rebar et al., 2015).
• Social Connection: Group exercises foster social interaction and support, which are beneficial for mental health. Social connections made through group activities can enhance emotional well-being (Ashdown-Franks et al., 2021).
• Educational Basis: Exercise programs provide a foundation for further education on health and well-being, equipping individuals with the knowledge and habits needed for a healthier lifestyle (Duncan et al., 2022).

At Guardian Exercise Rehabilitation, we offer tailored exercise programs designed to address the unique needs of clients dealing with psychological stress or mental health issues. Our goal is to support their recovery journey by integrating effective, evidence-based exercise interventions.

Have you considered how regular physical activity might assist your clients alongside other treatments? We invite you to further your learning with us. Mental Health Hub

Together, let’s provide the support needed for a healthier, happier mind.

• Ashdown-Franks, G., et al. (2021). Exercise as a treatment for depression: A meta-analysis adjusting for publication bias. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 77, 42-51.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2016.02.023
• Duncan, M. J., et al. (2022). The association of physical activity, sleep, and screen time with mental health in Canadian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal isotemporal substitution analysis, Ment Health Phys Act. 2022 Oct;23:100473. https://doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.mhpa.2022.100473
• Rebar, A. L., et al. (2015). A meta-meta-analysis of the effect of physical activity on depression and anxiety in non-clinical adult populations. Health Psychology Review, 9(3), 366-378. https://doi.org/10.1080/17437199.2015.1022901
• Singh, B., et al. (2021). Effectiveness of physical activity interventions for improving depression, anxiety and distress: an overview of systematic reviews. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2023;57:1203-1209. https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/18/1203
• Heissel, A., et al. (2023). Exercise as medicine for depressive symptoms? A systematic review and meta-analysis with meta-regression. British Journal of Sports Medicine.https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2022-106282