Exercise and
Positive Psychotherapy:
Too
often we accept the outdated assertion that medication and psychotherapy
are the “proven” treatment mode for depression. Positive psychotherapy
and exercise can reduce or eliminate symptoms of depression and anxiety
in almost anyone. There are good studies that demonstrate this and my
work with patients confirms it.
Exercise is an important and positive addition to
psychotherapy. Books, articles and guidelines for combining exercise and
psychotherapy have been developed. I’m so convinced of this that I
installed an exercise gym in my office for patients. I also have simple
exercise equipment patients can take home with them. The combined
results are immediate and powerful. I can hardly
imagine the use of antidepressants as a
first option if a patient is severally depressed. According to the U.S. Health Department, more and more
people are depressed. The reasons are stress, the consequences of
stress, and a culture that promotes the pursuit of stimulation and
pleasure as distraction or escape from emotional problems. Instead of
more healthy activities, people are pursuing stimulation and pleasure
through food, alcohol, television and video games while sitting on the
couch.
Why do health care professionals in the
Antidepressants are big business. Americans spend
more than 86 billion dollars a year on antidepressants alone.
Pharmaceutical companies spend nearly 10 billion dollars each year on
marketing and promotion. Antidepressants are among the most commonly
prescribed and most profitable drugs in
Second, people in the
The Biggest
Misunderstanding Antidepressants can help a few people. Journalists and
advertisements incorrectly report that antidepressants can help up to
65% of people diagnosed with depression. But when you read the research,
and account for placebo effects, you realize that 40 to 50% of depressed
people would get better without an antidepressant. Only 15 to 25%
improve somewhat on drugs. Research repeatedly confirms that 40 to 50%
of depressed patients get better because of the passage of time, changes
they make in their lives, and fortunate events. And if you read all the
studies on antidepressants you discover that nearly 6 out of 10 studies
show that antidepressants don’t work at all. The failed studies are
never publicized and are often kept secret. In fact, the “new
generation” of antidepressants (like Prozac) are not more effective than
the old ones. The new ones are just more expensive with different risks
and side-effects. There are some important realities that are supported
by research and publications.
How Do Most People
Recover From Depression?
Most people get better because of the passage of
time, fortunate events, or positive changes in their life style.
Medications can prevent people from making changes in their life. In
Exercise and Positive
Psychotherapy Exercise can benefit people of all ages. Almost any
strenuous exercise can reduce or eliminate symptoms of depression. This
can include activities like walking, hiking, rowing, biking, running or
weight lifting. Exercise on a daily basis that involves social
interaction is best. The effect of exercise is positive, both
immediately and long term. The following will be true for the vast majority of
people.
People who have not seen a health care professional in
a long time, and those with health problems, should have a medical
check-up before entering a new exercise program. This is especially
important for people who have high blood pressure, are overweight,
smoke, are diabetic or have family history of heart disease. People with
skeletal or muscle problems should consult with a physical therapist.
Sustaining Motion
Positive psychotherapy is more than just talking about problems. It is
about supporting a healthy lifestyle where people are engaged in
meaningful, stimulating and rewarding activities. The biggest challenge
for a person who has been depressed is to keep exercising. People are
more likely to continue exercise if their activity involves positive
social experience, scheduled times for exercise and when they measure
progress and pay attention to all the benefits. Exercise and positive
psychotherapy can eliminate depression and create joy.
Copyright 2008, Michael G. Conner |