If you or someone you care about wants to overcome a substance use disorder (SUD), many addiction treatment options are available. It is vital for those struggling with addiction to seek out the assistance of trained medical professionals so they can work together to develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan that raises the chances of them successfully overcoming addiction. Furthermore, it is essential to take a well-rounded approach to rehab. For example, physical exercise in recovery can be helpful for people struggling with addiction or other mental health issues in Colorado and beyond.
How do physical recovery exercises help clients in mental health treatment programs? Learn more about mental health recovery at Women’s Recovery. Contact our team today at 833.754.0554 to learn more about our mental health treatment programs and other services.
What Is the Link Between Maintaining Physical Health and Mental Health Recovery?
There are many reasons why it is essential to exercise for mental health. One of the most significant benefits is that it helps to combat stress and anxiety. If you can find an activity you love, such as hiking, biking, running, or playing sports, it can serve as an outlet to help you manage any negative emotions you may be feeling. It can also help to take your mind off whatever is causing you distress and give you a chance to clear your head.
In addition to helping with stress and anxiety, exercise has also been shown to improve moods, increase self-esteem, and reduce the symptoms of depression. It can also help increase energy levels, which is often helpful for those struggling with fatigue due to their mental health condition. Furthermore, physical activity has been linked with better sleep, which is essential for overall health and well-being.
Physical and mental health go hand-in-hand. These factors have an impact on each other. For example, if someone exercises regularly and seeks mental health treatment, they will be in a much better frame of mind. In addition, if someone takes care of their mental health, they will find it easier to exercise daily.
As a result, if you want to overcome mental health issues, you must take care of your physical body. That is where exercise is essential. For individuals looking to protect their long-term sobriety and recovery from SUDs, structured physical activity—along with a dual diagnosis and specific treatment for a case like this—is critical.
How Can Exercise Therapy Help with Mental Health Recovery?
Exercise therapy is critical during the recovery process because exercise releases endorphins that make people feel happy. When you exercise, your body will increase its level of certain neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters bind to receptors throughout the brain, controlling your emotions. Whether you are performing a weight-bearing or cardiac exercise, you will release particular neurotransmitters that will cause you to elevate your mood. That way, you can avoid depression, helping you maintain a positive frame of mind as you look to protect your sobriety.
In addition, exercise therapy is an essential part of the recovery process because substance abuse and addiction disorders can impact your physical health. For example, long-term alcohol abuse can damage your liver. If you want to protect your body’s physical health, then exercise is critical. Regular exercise can improve the health of your bones, protect your cardiovascular system, and prevent long-term health complications.
What Are Some Excellent Recovery Exercises for Clients in Mental Health Treatment Programs?
Suppose you are looking for a way to start exercising while in a treatment program for a SUD or another mental health issue. In that case, it is important to start low and go slow. Particularly if you have not exercised regularly for a long time, you need to stay safe and avoid injuries.
Walking
An easy way to start a routine of exercise in recovery is to get into walking. You can:
- Start by walking around the neighborhood for a half-hour every day
- Eventually, progress to power walking
- Then, you should be able to start running short distances as you get in better shape
Finally, you may be able to finish a 5K a few months after you start your exercise routine.
Weight-Bearing Exercises
It is essential to intersperse cardio exercise with weight-bearing exercises, as well, such as:
- Pilates
- Weightlifting
- Yoga
These exercises are critical because they help to improve your bone health, as well as your balance and coordination. They also help you build muscle, protecting your body as you age.
Seek Mental Health Recovery at Women’s Recovery
If you are looking for help to overcome addiction or another mental health issue, exercise therapy connected to a mental health treatment program in Colorado can play an important role. At Women’s Recovery, our team will be happy to help you with the mental health recovery process. Our team will work with you closely to determine what you need to recover and will provide physical exercise therapy in most cases. Contact us today at 833.754.0554 to make an appointment with our team.
