Running Therapy
The last thing you feel like doing when you’re depressed is going for a run outside. Still, jogging can help against gloom. Regular exercise can even prevent and cure depression. And you don’t have to do it alone.
In the Netherlands, about one in sixteen people has a depression. This disease affects the quality of life and causes a lot of grief. This manifests itself in many ways in depressed people. They perform worse at work, but relationships with family and friends also suffer. Some even see no other way out than suicide.
Treatments
Fortunately, depression is usually treatable. A combination of talking and pills is common. But nowadays more and more people are starting running therapy. Healed by exercising too regularly. This treatment is becoming more and more popular because it works both physically and mentally.
Substances in the brain
In people with depression, the production and retention of serotonin and other substances in the brain is disrupted. This disturbance can be solved chemically, in the form of pills, but also by running.
During exercise, substances are released in the body such as adrenaline, endorphins and serotonin. Endorphins, for example, provide a temporary feeling of happiness. Runners call this nice feeling “runners high”.
Self confidence
Before starting running therapy, a patient has probably not exercised for a long time. With depression, just the thought of exercise is exhausting. Ordinary work and chores at home are often left behind.
By starting running therapy, patients increase their self-confidence. And after the training you have achieved something: you have literally achieved the goal you have set for yourself. Condition
Running not only reduces your feelings of depression, but your whole health improves. Jogging is good for your heart and your condition, and it is easier to maintain your weight. Sleep problems are also less. You will feel better and you can see it.
Start walking therapy
Do you think you have depression? Then don’t immediately put on your sports shoes to go for a run. First rule out that you don’t have anything else. For this, go to your GP or GGZ.
Do you have depression? Then look for a good treatment together with your therapist. If you decide that it is running therapy, then go for a guided walk in a group. This way you build it up slowly and you prevent injuries and disappointment.
Knowing more?
- A number of GGZs provide Running Therapy: inquire about this at the one in your area.
- In the Netherlands, Dr. Ruud Bosscher obtained his doctorate for his research into running therapy. His dissertation is called: Running therapy for depression. isbn: 9789051700794
- Also check out these sites: www.runningtherapie.nl and www.loopuitjedip.nl.
