Running to boost mood

[2017runner]

Happy New Year. I have just done my first day of the couch to 5k run. I am taking up running to help boost my mood as had a tough 2016 and want to have a better 2017. Have read that exercise is as effective as medication for treating depression. Anyone have any experience of this to share?

[JoolieB1 Graduate]

I haven't had depression, so not sure what evidence there is out there. However, running has raised my self confidence, helps me to feel calmer and manage my stress. While running, I often don't think about anything and so it gives me a great brain rest. I feel my sleep is improved too. Also, in combination with a free App called My Fitness Pal which helps me to count calories, I have lost 2 stone. Also, I am more aware of eating healthy, fresh food rather than junk. So for me the mental health a small well as the physical health benefits are proven - and I am 53 and was totally inactive, so a running miracle, graduated a year ago and run every week x 3 times, average weekly runs are 20 km per week

[Pc59 Graduate]

Happy new year😊 Running definitely lifts your spirits and i have so much more energy after running as the buzz after a run is great!! I started in aug 2016 so a newbie 😀This program & forum is fantastic and everyone helps each other to stay motivated and great tips as well! I never ran before so at 59 if i can do it anyone can😂Keep us all posted and well done for taking the first step!! Enjoy 😊

[McFitty Graduate]

Running is the ultimate mood booster (for me anyway)

[Sandraj39 Graduate]

Running ia a brilliant mood lifter. I have battled with anxiety on and off for many years and have been quite low at times. Running has boosted my confidence massively and I am a much stronger and happier person now. I think it is one of the best things you can do for your mental health and wish you lots of success on your journey. Here's to a more positive 2017 for you - stay strong.☺

[Joanna_d1977]

For definite before I started running I had really bad depression I started to run in 2015 and it helped me so much that I no longer take any meds I had a baby in Feb 2016 (leap year baby ) put on 2.5 stone and as soon as I had him I was back walking and running by the time he was 3 months it really helped me as I had depression thr the pregnancy to And as soon as the middle of may came I was back at my running club the depression went I do still get bouts of it so on goes the trainers and off I go good luck Hun x

However with my depression it' was to do with my monthly I got premenstral disphoric dysfunction it's to do with hormones etc but exercise has def boosted my moods

[Shivani05 Graduate]

I had an extremely difficult year too - hormone related mood swings, death of friends and family - and running kept me sane. I don't even want to think about how bad the year could have been had I not run. Keep at it, it will really help.

[useitorloseit Graduate]

I've suffered from depression for years, but nothing since I started running in 2014. It's those endorphins - they just banish the blues and the brilliant feeling you get every time you complete a run works wonders. Also stay away from mood hoovers and check in here daily - it's the most positive place I've ever been!