Physical Therapy & Depression

Depression is a mental and emotional state affecting millions of Americans. It is also a mental disorder that can reach a severe level and require professional help. There are many factors and causal elements associated with depression, one of which is physical pain and the overall condition of the body, which can sometimes be overlooked. An individual's emotional response is affected by her physical condition, both biochemically and through her perception of her body.

• Exercise can help combat depression.

Depression and the Body

• We tend to think of depression as an emotional state that includes a sad mood and lack of positive emotions and pleasure in activities. It can also include low self-esteem and a negative overall outlook on life and the world. Depression has many relationships with the physical body, including a reduced level of brain neurochemicals known as monoamines. Many antidepressant medications increase monoamine levels in the brain to reduce the effect of depression. In addition, links have been shown between depression and the general physical state of the body, such as the level of physical fitness and the presence of pain.

Impact of Exercise on Depression

• Exercise has a powerful impact on depression and is often a key part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Lack of exercise can create a depressed physical condition in that the body is in a low level of fitness, energy and cardiovascular function, which has a direct impact on mood. Exercise not only increases the metabolism of the body, but it also releases brain chemicals known as endorphins, which produce a euphoric effect. Exercise can also increase self-esteem by allowing an individual to see himself as physically fit.

Pain and Depression

• Pain, particularly the chronic variety, has been associated with depression in that chronic pain sufferers often deal with depression as a side effect of their condition. Depression has even been shown to create physical pain, both through psychosomatic symptoms (imagined physical sensations) and due to its impact on mood, causing a reduction in interest in exercise and activity.

The Role of Physical Therapy

• Physical therapists play an important role in depression because they use exercise as one of their treatment strategies. They also frequently deal with pain and can be the first professional to whom a patient confesses depression concerns. Physical therapy, along with counseling and medication, can be a key element of a comprehensive approach to the treatment of depression. Physical therapists can work with a patient to reduce pain and other physical symptoms that may be contributing to a depressed mood and prescribe an exercise regimen to improve the patient's physical condition, further alleviating depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

• Physical therapists, by virtue of their training and role in treatment, can play a powerful role in helping patients deal with the physical aspects of depression. More research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between depressed emotional states and the physical body.