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Originally Posted by madp
A good psych will recommend healthy life habits- including excercise, healthy diet, and regular social activities- as part of the treatment plan for a depressed patient. However, one of the symptoms of depression is that a patient loses motivation and energy, and just can't drag themselves to the gym, to a social event, etc.
As I mentioned in an earlier response, most psych's realize that the way someone lives their life, and the attitude or preconceived notions with which they live their life, contribute to depressive episodes. If fundamental changes are not made in the way they live their lives, they are likely to experience episodes of depression over and over (or will reside in a constant state of low-grade depression/dysthymia). We are social beings, and we need healthy social relationships to enable us to view ourselves in a healthy, positive light.
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Thanks for a thorough and informative reply, madp. You answered my question very well. I certainly don't mean to imply that exercise is a panacea for depression; you are right, I have known many exceptionally athletic people who still suffer from depression. It is part of a greater suite of treatments that could be applied, in different combinations, to each individual.
I have certainly gone through times when I simply lacked all desire/motivation to go to the gym on a regular basis, and I often lack motivation to attend social events (even now)... though this doesn't usually make me depressed, since I am an introvert and tend to be happier with fewer people around me.
I guess what shocked me, and where my question came from, was seeing the improvement in my own mental health in conjunction with increased exercise. If I had known it would have helped *that* much, I would have started this regimen earlier!
But if I was still struggling with depression, even after a number of lifestyle changes, I certainly wouldn't hesitate to inquire about certain medicines that would help me with that... because then it would obviously be something biochemical.
I think what has been bothering me about *some* people's use of anti-depressants is that they don't go through with lifestyle changes in addition to the meds. My mother has been on Xanax, then Paxil, for a good 10-12 years... she has never really exercised, is overweight, and continue to have very low self-esteem, controlling behaviors, panic attacks, and all manner of other issues. She is usually resistant to counseling, though says that her meds are what "keep her sane." I guess I wish the doctor would prescribe something in addition to the meds... like a gym trainer who would, in effect, force my mother to get to the gym and try to work out on a regular basis.
Anyway, sorry for my ramble, but thanks for your answer again. I understand the complexity of treating mental health issues... but you have illuminated a new aspect for me.
