There is a fair chance that you, or someone you know has either suffered or is currently suffering from depression. A recent study suggested that over 2 million Aussie’s reported displaying symptoms of depression, a statistic which has likely increased over the past year, thanks to COVID-19 (1)! Not only is depression a significant detriment to individual health and wellbeing, it also equates to a whopping 31 BILLION dollar cost to the economy.
But what if I told you there was a proven remedy? That this remedy could reduce symptoms by greater than 41% (2). And that this remedy is completely natural and scientifically proven to work?
What if this remedy were so affordable, it would provide a $10.80 return on improved health and wellbeing benefits for every $1 you spent on it? (4)
“SHUT UP AND TAKE MY MONEY!”
Hold on, let me delve into exactly what I am talking about, the proven benefits and how to complete this remedy right.
Exercise – The Secret solution
It sounds cliché, but exercise IS medicine for the prevention and management of depression (3). Exercise has a multitude of benefits to help manage or better your symptoms so you can #livebettertoday. Exercise prescribed by a medical professional has been clinically proven to help the following;
- Improve sleep quality
- Decrease social isolation
- Increase self-esteem and self-efficacy
- Improve quality of life
- Decrease stress
- Mitigate the side effects of medication
- Manage related illnesses
“Who are these medical professionals you are talking about?”
Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are university-trained medical professionals who prescribe exercise as medication. AEP’s use scientific methods to make sure the exercises provided are individualised to each person, keeping in mind each person’s current capacity and fitness levels, interests, and goals. AEPs are specifically trained to understand the science behind mental health conditions to ensure they can empathise and forge a pathway to manage these conditions effectively long-term. Yes, not all hero’s wear capes.
“So, what exercise will they make me do”
Research suggests there are a multitude of exercise types that can assist in managing depression (3). Aerobic, resistance, and breathing exercises all have strong evidence linked to large decreases in depression symptoms. AEP’s will utilise the exercise modalities which are most specific to your current circumstances to ensure you enjoy the exercise and that they are effective! Exercises can be completed wherever you feel most comfortable, whether it be in the comfort of your own home, outside, the gym, or one of our exercise clinics!
“OK, AEP’s sound AWESOME! How do I see one?”
If you live in Brisbane or the Fraser Coast, click here to talk to one of our trusted team members. Alternatively, speak to your local GP regarding options in your local area. You can also do your own research through clicking here to search for AEP’s around you. If you have private health insurance, you may be able to have subsidised appointments as AEP’s are registered with many major health funds. Your GP may even be able to include AEP’s on a health care plan if you are eligible! If you are not able to access these, don’t worry! Remember the cost-to-benefit ratio of seeing an AEP is great, and AEP’s will ensure they provide a cost-effective way to manage your health.
Mental health, 2017-18 financial year. (2021). Retrieved 27 October 2021, from https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health/mental-health/latest-release
Exercise for the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety - Peter J. Carek, Sarah E. Laibstain, Stephen M. Carek, 2011. (2021). Retrieved 27 October 2021, from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.2190/PM.41.1.c
The value of accredited exercise physiologists to consumers in Australia. (2021). [PDF]. http://file:///C:/Users/EHA.Admin/Downloads/deloitte-au-economics-value-exercise-physiologists-to-consumers-011216.pdf
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