Running Away From Depression
Was feeling down today, not quite sure why. Could be the fact that I have cut way back on my mileage this week or something else completely. Either way I was glad it was not another rest day, I needed to run. I ran 3 miles on the treadmill, I would have liked to run at 6 miles and 10 would have been even better. But I am trying to follow the schedule, so 3 it was. Since I could not run long, I ran fast at least part of the time, I did some at my intervals at 7 min/mile pace which is pretty good for me. I felt better after running, not magically cheery, but just at peace again.
Many studies suggest that regular exercise is associated with reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. It can be as effective as medication in relieving symptoms of mild to moderate depression. I have struggled with depression and anxiety for many years, and have tried many things to alleviate my symptoms, but the only thing that truly helped me was running. Starting my running routine was really a turning point in my life. It has given me a better self image, a feeling of accomplishment, and an overall better outlook on life. On a day to day basis it helps regulate my mood. I can not say I am miss happy go lucky all the time, but I am also not miss doom and gloom either.
If you would like more information about how exercise can affect depression here are some good reads:
Can Exercise Relieve the Symptoms of Depression?
Exercise and Depression and Anxiety
Slow and Steady Still Finishes the Race
-Middalia Wayman
Filed under: Running Blog
Hi Middalia,
Glad to hear you were feeling better after your run! Moods usually have a good biological explanation, even though they often might appear at the time to have no immediately recognizable rhyme or reason. And on that note, thank goodness for running, eh?!
-C
It is so good to hear the great effect of running in your life. Great post. Thank you
Middalia,
Just had a thought. Do you think you are possibly overtraining? I know when I get particularly moody, it’s a sign that I’m overtraining. Just wrote a brief post about it in fact, if you’d like to look at a checklist of potential overtraining signs. Hope you find it helpful!
-C