Can exercise help?
As soon as you begin regular physical activity you are likely to feel some immediate benefits. These include less anxiety and depression, less stress, lower rates of smoking and substance misuse, improved sleep, better maintenance of a healthy weight and increased social opportunities. Here are some simple tips to help you get started.
1. Aim for 30 minutes of activity 5 days a week that makes you slightly out of breath.
2. Avoid an all at once or crash approach.
3. Try splitting your exercise into smaller sessions through the day.
4. Walk whenever you can use stairs rather than lifts.
5. Get together with other people to exercise.
6. You could even try housework to help you get more active around the house.
Resources
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Alternative therapies leaflet
Royal College of Psychiatrists leaflet on alternative therapies.
Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists
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About physical activity
Information about physical activity on the Healthy living website managed by NHS Health Scotland.
Credit: NHS Health Scotland
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Exercise and depression
Information about exercise and depression from the Mental Health Foundation.
Credit: Mental Health Foundation