Anxiety describes a group of disorders such as generalised anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder. They are usually treated with psychological and pharmacological therapies, however some people are interested in the use of complementary therapies such as exercise to help their anxiety.
Whilst a wealth of data supports the role of exercise for alleviation of depression, in comparison the research concerning exercise and anxiety is scarce. However a review of these studies suggests that exercise is an effective treatment for anxiety, but it’s not as effective as using antidepressants and psychological therapy.
This suggests that exercise can be beneficial when implemented alongside other treatments, with the bonus of actively exposing individuals to anxiety stimulating environments such as a gym, providing an opportunity to use acquired coping strategies.
Faye Prior (Researcher)
Source
Jayakody, K., Gunadasa, S. & Hosker, C. (2014). Exercise for anxiety disorders: systematic review. BJSM, 48, 187-96.
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