Exercise and nature, against depression and anxiety

Move more and spend time in natural environments They are not simple wellness tips. They have solid scientific support such as therapeutic tools in depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This was recalled by the Osakidetza psychiatrist Nagore Iriarte and the researcher at the University of the Basque Country Mikel Tous during the XXXIV National Update Course in Psychiatry held in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

According to Iriarte, “the main international clinical guidelines recommend Physical exercise as a first-line treatment or central intervention in depression and anxietyand as an essential component in psychosis and bipolar disorder.” These guidelines include those of the WHO (World Health Organization), the British NICE, the American APA and the European EPA. The WHO, in particular, indicates that physical activity recommendations should be the same for the healthy population and for those who suffer from mental illness.

This approach is part of what is called “Lifestyle psychiatry” either Lifestyle Psychiatrya model that integrates lifestyle habits into treatment along with medication. Physical exercise, explains Iriarte, “can be one of the most powerful interventions to stimulate brain plasticity“, although “other factors such as management of sleep, diet and mindfulness“.

The psychiatrist emphasizes that prescribing exercise requires the same rigor as prescribing a drug. You have to take into account the patient profilehe moment suitable, the real barriers such as lack of motivation or adherence and working as a team with physical-sports educators. “In this way, we will be carrying out a personalized prescription“, he defends.

Living near green areas protects mental health

Tous has delved into what is known as Green Therapythe relationship between exposure to natural spaces and mental health. Various epidemiological studies show that those who live in greener environments have better mental and physical health indicators. Even more significant is that Exposure to green spaces during childhood is associated with a lower risk of developing psychiatric disorders throughout life.

Regarding dosage, although there is no definitive consensus, the most effective interventions seem to be developed during eight to twelve weekswith sessions of between 20 and 90 minutes. And exercising outdoors has additional benefits compared to doing it indoors: improves blood pressure, reduces stress and anxiety and has a positive effect on a social level.