When struggling with substance abuse, there’s more to consider than just that disease. In fact, people often struggle with underlying mental disorders that feed the substance abuse habit. One of the most common is depression. What you might not know is that biking for depression is a great way to get relief.
Biking for Depression Improves Your Subjective Mood
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that make you feel good. Studies show that exercising just half an hour a day is enough to improve your subjective mood and overall well-being. In fact, causal activities such as biking for depression improve mood more than competitive sports. One reason is because competitive sports actually increases stress and causes even more problems.
Biking Can Boost Self-esteem
Another reason why people tend to feel depressed is because of low self-esteem. In 1977, William McGuire theorized that what people think about themselves is a central concept in their lives. A lot goes into McGuire’s theory. Overall, it focuses on how the perception that people have about themselves is critical to their general satisfaction.
Where does biking fit into this theory? When you exercise, you feel good about yourself. It can also help you lose weight or stay in shape. These are elements that play a role in improving your self esteem.
Outdoor Exercise Relieves Depression Better
While you can do plenty of exercises indoors, outdoor exercises are more effective at relieving depression. It’s another reason why biking for depression is a good idea. Exposure to the sun and outdoor elements does wonders at improving your overall mood.
Physical Activity Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Why do people start to feel depressed? Many factors play a role in the development of depression. However, the two that contribute the most are anxiety and stress. Finding a way to relieve these two problems can do wonders in helping you overcome depression.
Once again, biking for depression is here to save the day. It offers a simple escape from your everyday life. It’s typically enough to reduce stress and stem anxiety. This type of activity can also improve sleep patterns, which reduces stress further.
Let Us Help You Overcome Depression
At Rose Hill Center in Holly, Michigan, we know the devastating effects that depression can have. That’s why we offer mental health treatment for both men and women. We use a mix of traditional and holistic treatment options to help you overcome mental health and substance abuse problems. Some of the programs that we offer with biking for depression include:
- Transitional living
- Biking therapy program
- Extended residential program
- Co-occurring disorder treatment
- Residential rehabilitation
Don’t let your depression continue to feed your substance abuse habit. Learn more about how biking for depression can aid you in recovery. Get the help that you need when you call 866-367-0220 and speak to one of our friendly staff members.
