Exercise and mental health have been studied since the early 1900s. Various studies have suggested an association between exercise and how it can reduce anxiety and depression, improve mood and self-esteem, and help a person achieve a quality sleep.

The researchers have been involved in numerous studies to determine the effect that exercise has on patients who suffer from anxiety. Anxiety affects 7.3 percent of U.S. adult population to the point that requires treatment. 81 percent of the studies found a definite relationship between anxiety decreased after exercise, with no conflicting information. Another 19 percent also found an association between anxiety decrease with exercise, however, there are some conflicting results. But more often than not exercising assisted in calming anxiety.

Clinical depression affects 2.5 percent of Americans, and since the turn of the 20th century there were more than 100 studies conducted to examine the relationship between exercise and depression. All research has been done clearly describes exercises associated with a significant reduction in symptoms of depression. Exercise can actually affect antidepressant such as might be seen in the first week to start a fitness routine. These studies also illustrate that sport can make a greater influence when the exercise program longer than nine weeks.

Exercise not only affects the anxiety and depression. It also can affect mood, self-esteem and sleep. The Surgeon General’s Report states that exercise can improve mood, however, no analytic reviews in this area. But already there are four meta-analytic review that focuses on how self-esteem is affected by exercise. Studies have shown that exercise can bring a small but significant increase in self-esteem.

There is also clinical evidence that increased physical activity can be useful for alcohol and substance abuse recovery, because it can help improve social skills, cognitive thinking and dependency. Exercise can even improve brain function in older people and help prevent senility.

With evidence that exercise has a positive impact on many body systems, are involved in physical fitness to enhance a healthy mental function is a smart move. Even light exercise such as walking or stretching offers a myriad of benefits. Exercising for 30 minutes, 3 times a week is recommended to maintain healthy brain function and can reduce the symptoms of common mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Most substance abuse treatment programs include physical exercise as it helps improve mood and self-esteem, as well as with sleep.