Down with post-workout depression? Here's how to deal with it

Depression following exercise is not topic that is frequently discussed affecting health of many people

By Web Desk
February 26, 2024
A representational image depicting a man sitting on an exercise mat on a floor. — Freepik/Bristekjegor/File

The feel-good endorphin surge that comes from working out is one of the nicest parts of the exercise, but if you work out too much, your mood may drop.

Depression following exercise is not a topic that is frequently discussed. Here's how to spot it and steer clear of it, according to ABC7 Eyewitness News.

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"Being in that present moment can really help to mitigate anxiety," said personal trainer and health coach Allison Wells, who said she's encountering post-workout depression more often with clients.

"They feel depressed or anxious, or a sense of exhaustion or overwhelmed after the exercise," she said.

"We know that exercise is good for your mental health, but too much of anything can be a bad thing," said Adult and Child Psychiatrist Dr Ashley Zucker with Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino.

She said for some people, a grueling workout can be counterproductive to your mood, even with endorphins due to the release of stress hormones after a grueling workout.

"You want to make sure that you're fueling your body that's both with food and water or hydration, and then also getting the right amount of rest and sleep," Zucker said.

Since mental and physical health are related, it's possible that you're not aware that you're experiencing anxiety or sadness. Experts advise speaking with a mental health specialist to determine the cause of the issue.

"When it's interfering with people's everyday lives, that can indicate that there's something else going on, which they may need to seek additional help for," said Zucker.

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