Exercise used to treat depression
For the past four years the Mental Health Foundation has been working with GPs to try and reduce the number of anti depressants they prescribe, and it seems they are finally seeing results, according to an article on the Guardian website today.
Four years ago only 5% of GPs said they would prescribe exercise – known to help lift low moods- instead of anti depressants. However, that figure has now risen to 22%.
This new method of encouraging people to take exercise, be creative, and take leisure time is part of a new holistic approach being taken to help combat depression and promote good mental health and well being.
Stephan von Schilling, manager of Camden council’s clinical referral for physical activity scheme has seen the results of prescribing activities instead of pills. “We know exercise can help lift mood. The support that patients can get from others in a group activity can help with confidence and really lift spirits,” he says.