The Role and Benefit of Exercise in the Treatment of Psychological Disorders

This book brings together compelling evidence that physical exercise is not only beneficial for a wide array of physical ailments and disabilities but is also highly effective in addressing known psychological problems.

The book begins with brief history of the intersection of mental and physical health and an overview of the current literature. Clinical cases and experimental studies discuss how physical exercise positively impacts self-esteem and well-being, anxiety, cognitive functioning, and pain, as well as disorders such as depression, PTSD, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism. Special attention is given to the different kinds of exercise and their specific effects on mental health. Real-world vignettes give a clear picture of how one gets involved in exercise, how much exercise is sufficient, and what psychological benefits one can expect from exercise.

Intended for academics, researchers, and practitioners in psychology, mental health, and health, readers will discover how physical exercise can be both an adjunctive and standalone intervention for traditional psychotherapeutic and medical treatments for psychological problems.