The Benefits of Exercise for Managing Anxiety and Depression
Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Exercise is one of the most effective nonpharmacologic treatments for anxiety and depression, offering a broad range of psychological and biological benefits. While often discussed in the context of physical health, regular movement directly supports the brain’s ability to regulate mood, process emotions, and build resilience. For individuals living with anxiety or depression, incorporating consistent exercise can help reduce symptom severity, improve sleep, enhance self-esteem, and support long-term recovery. The Science Behind Exercise and Mood Exercise influences multiple biological systems that govern emotional health. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins—natural chemicals that produce feelings of pleasure and reduce the perception of pain. It also increases serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that regulate motivation, concentration, and mood. These chemical shifts can create a sense of calm and well-being, often referred to as the “exercise …