Exercise and Depression: How Moving Your Body Can Improve Your Mood
When you are living with depression, even small tasks can feel overwhelming. The idea of exercising may seem impossible. Yet research consistently shows that physical activity can be a powerful tool in improving mood, reducing stress, and supporting overall mental health. While exercise is not a cure-all, it can be an important part of a broader treatment plan for depression.
How Exercise Affects the Brain and Mood
Exercise impacts mental health through both physical and psychological pathways:
Boosts brain chemicals that improve mood, such as serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins
Reduces stress hormones like cortisol, helping you feel calmer
Increases blood flow to the brain, which supports focus and cognitive function
Builds a sense of accomplishment, which can counter the feelings of hopelessness common in depression
Even short bouts of movement can make a difference. The key is consistency and finding activities you can realistically maintain.
Types of Exercise That Can Help
The best kind of exercise for depression is the one you are most likely to stick with. Options include:
Walking – Easy to start, accessible, and effective for boosting mood
Strength training – Builds both physical and emotional resilience
Yoga – Combines gentle movement with breathwork and mindfulness
Swimming or cycling – Low-impact activities that are easy on the joints
Group exercise classes – Offer social connection, which can also help combat isolation
Getting Started When Motivation Is Low
Depression can drain your energy and motivation, making it hard to begin. Strategies that can help include:
Starting with just 5 to 10 minutes of activity
Pairing movement with something enjoyable, like music or a favorite podcast
Scheduling exercise at the same time each day to build routine
Choosing activities that feel manageable rather than overwhelming
Celebrating small wins instead of focusing only on big goals
How Therapy and Exercise Work Together
At TriPeak Behavioral Health, we recognize that while exercise can be helpful for depression, it is most effective when paired with a comprehensive mental health approach. In therapy, we can:
Explore emotional barriers to getting started
Develop realistic and personalized activity goals
Address negative self-talk that interferes with motivation
Provide accountability and encouragement to help you stay on track
Integrate exercise into a broader treatment plan that may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and lifestyle changes
Support for Depression in Albuquerque
We help clients in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico create sustainable changes that improve mood and quality of life. Whether you are new to exercise or returning after a long break, we can help you make it part of a plan that supports your mental health.
You do not have to navigate depression alone. Complete our online form to send us a message, or call us to schedule an appointment today.