Hello everyone.  Today I’m going to give you a little update on my exercise and its effect on my mental well being.  I’ve been exercising consistently for almost two months and I think it’s paying off!

I have yet to find a month when I have absolutely no symptoms related to premenstrual dysphoric disorder.  That being said, I’m pleased to find that this month seemed quite a bit better than others.  I can’t be absolutely certain that my exercise routine takes all the credit.  However, it’s something worth watching for the future.  So far, so good.

Research Supports Exercise For Improving Symptoms

I’ve looked into recent research articles on mental health and exercise.  Here’s one about depression and anxiety, and one about just anxiety.  The experts seem to think exercise is an effective option for reducing symptoms.  This is still a rather new conclusion, so it’s hard to say how long it will take for practitioners and the general public to put this into action.  But you are hearing it right now from me.  Exercise can really help your well being when you do it regularly.

It doesn’t matter whether you have an official diagnosis or if you just feel like you could use a more positive attitude in your life.  I’m not sure exercise could prevent mental health problems, but it can certainly help you cope and recover if it’s already part of your routine.

Check With Your Doctor Before Exercising

Check with your doctor to make sure you aren’t doing something unsafe for your body.  Once you do that, start with something – even five or ten minutes a day.  Just starting the routine can help you with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, depression, anxiety, or just getting through a tough week in your life.

Have you used exercise of some kind to help you will your mental well being?  Tell me your experience!

photo credit: Robert S. Donovan

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    Last reviewed: 2 Sep 2010