Exercise as a Tool for Treating Anxiety and Depression

Authors

Lizzi Hahn, UVM Larner College of MedicineFollow

Files

Date

2021

Abstract

In addition to its important role in the maintenance of physical health, exercise has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health. Recent studies indicate that even brief engagement in physical activity can make a positive impact on the treatment of pre-existing anxiety and depression - as well as the prevention of future symptoms. Despite this relationship between exercise and emotional wellness, regular activity in the United States is still exceedingly low, and exercise remains an underused tool by healthcare providers in the treatment of their patients’ anxiety and depression. The goal of this project was to assess patient engagement in and barriers to exercise, as well as their understanding of its benefits for mental health as perceived by providers at CVPH Family Medicine Center, and to create a patient-centered resource emphasizing the significance of physical activity in reducing the burden of anxiety and depression.

Clinical Site

CVPH Family Medicine Center

Keywords

Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Exercise, Physical Activity, New York

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Disciplines

Medical Education | Primary Care

Recommended Citation

Hahn, Lizzi, "Exercise as a Tool for Treating Anxiety and Depression" (2021). Family Medicine Clerkship Student Projects. 687.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/fmclerk/687