This is number 8 of a 10-part series on how Atracare helps patients achieve lasting health through preventative care, holistic wellness, and accessible healthcare. Covering everything from pediatrics to primary care, mental health, and urgent care, Atracare supports Sussex County at every stage of life.

Presented in collaboration with Delaware Beaches Online and Atracare.

Boost Your Mental Health: The Power of Physical Activity and Expert Care

The Vital Connection Between Physical Activity and Mental Well-Being

Exercise is not just about physical fitness—it’s a cornerstone of mental health. From easing stress to managing psychiatric conditions, the benefits are profound. Let’s explore the science behind how staying active supports mental wellness and how Atracare’s integrated care services empower you on your journey to better health.

Why Exercise is Essential for Mental Health

Research consistently shows that physical activity positively impacts mood, stress, and overall mental health. It’s not just about burning calories—it’s about transforming your state of mind.

The Science Behind the Mood Boost

• Endorphins and Endocannabinoids: Exercise triggers the release of these “feel-good” chemicals, reducing stress and enhancing relaxation.
• Stress Hormone Regulation: Physical activity positively affects the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, helping to manage cortisol levels.
• Improved Self-Esteem: Regular activity promotes a sense of accomplishment and confidence.

Physical Activity’s Role in Cognitive Health

Beyond emotional benefits, staying active supports your brain.

• Memory and Focus: Studies reveal that exercise improves cognitive function, making it easier to stay sharp and productive.
• Stress Resilience: By managing cortisol, exercise helps you navigate challenging situations more effectively.

Addressing Severe Mental Health Conditions

For individuals with complex mental health needs, exercise is a valuable complement to treatment.

• Schizophrenia Management: Exercise reduces some psychotic symptoms and mitigates metabolic side effects of antipsychotic medications.
• Yoga’s Role: Yoga improves cognitive performance and supports healthy weight management in individuals with schizophrenia.

Supporting Addiction Recovery

Physical activity is a game-changer for those battling substance use disorders.

• Craving Reduction: Exercise helps reduce the urge to use substances.
• Stress Relief: It provides a healthy outlet for emotional challenges.
• Complementary Care: Activities like yoga amplify the effects of traditional therapy.

Better Sleep Through Movement

Regular exercise enhances sleep quality and duration.

• Deeper Rest: Physical activity promotes restorative sleep cycles.
• Sleep Disorder Management: Exercise can reduce symptoms of insomnia and other sleep-related issues.

A Natural Remedy for Anxiety and Depression

Depression and anxiety affect millions, but exercise offers hope.

• Happiness Chemicals: Endorphins produced during exercise combat negative emotions.
• Symptom Reduction: Activities like running or yoga significantly lower anxiety and depression levels.

Source: Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review

How Physical Activity Impacts Your Mood, Stress, and Self-Esteem

Boosting Your Mood

Research shows that physical activity can lift your mood significantly.

• A study found participants felt more content, alert, and calm after activities like walking or housework compared to periods of inactivity, such as watching TV.
• The benefits were most pronounced when individuals started with a low mood.
• Low-intensity aerobic exercise (30–35 minutes, 3–5 times per week, over 10–12 weeks) was particularly effective at increasing positive feelings like enthusiasm and alertness.

Reducing Stress

Physical activity helps combat the body’s stress response, triggered by hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

• These stress hormones cause physical symptoms like sweating, sleep issues, and appetite changes.
• Exercise helps regulate this response, lowering stress levels.
• Research on working adults found that those who are physically active experience lower stress rates than their less active counterparts.

Improving Self-Esteem

Self-esteem, a key component of mental well-being, benefits from regular physical activity.

• Exercise boosts how we feel about ourselves and our self-worth.
• Positive effects are seen across all age groups, genders, and life stages.

Physical activity is more than just exercise—it’s a tool for enhancing mental health and building resilience.

Source: How to look after your mental health using exercise

How Atracare Supports Whole-Person Wellness

At Atracare, we recognize that true health encompasses both physical and mental well-being. Our team collaborates across specialties to ensure personalized, holistic care.

Atracare’s Comprehensive Mental Health Services:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Proven strategies to manage anxiety and depression.
• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Effective trauma therapy.
• Complex Trauma Therapy: Addresses deep-rooted challenges.
• Art Therapy and Mindfulness: Creative and grounding approaches to healing.
• DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy): Focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.

The Takeaway

Exercise is not just a physical activity; it’s a foundation for mental health. When paired with expert care from Atracare, you can unlock a healthier, happier you. Whether it’s jogging around the block or engaging in art therapy, your wellness journey is waiting.

Your Journey Starts with Atracare

Atracare’s mission is to provide premiere healthcare for every stage of your life. With locations in Lewes and Ocean View, we’re here for you 365 days a year.

Why Choose Atracare?

• Transparent Pricing: Self-pay details are available at atracare.com/self-pay-costs.
• Major Insurances Accepted: Learn more at atracare.com/insurances-accepted.
• Accessible Care: Text 302-517-1385 to schedule an appointment or get information.

Up next: Strong, Healthy Parents Raise Strong, Healthy Kids: Building a Path to Family Wellness. Learn how prioritizing your own health can benefit the entire family, and how Atracare’s services support family wellness at every stage of life.

Read: “Strong, Healthy Parents Raise Strong, Healthy Kids: Building a Path to Family Wellness”