Is Exercise Beneficial For People With Bipolar Disorder? How Much Exercise Can Help?

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An individual with bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression or bipolar affective disorder, experiences periods of depression and mania alternately. It is characterised by mood swings between depression and mania.

There are four basic types of bipolar disorder and they are [1]:

• Bipolar I, which is the most severe form.
• Bipolar II disorder causes cycles of depression similar to those of bipolar I.
• Cyclothymia disorder (cyclothymia), sometimes defined as a milder form of bipolar disorder.
• Other or unspecified bipolar disorder, where the symptoms of this type of bipolar disorder do not meet the criteria for one of the other types. However, people still have significant, abnormal changes in mood.

Depending on the severity of the disorder, bipolar disorder may be treated differently. Psychotherapy can assist people with more stable moods to recognise and manage symptoms.

Acute episodes can be treated with medications, and relapse prevention can be achieved by providing psychosocial support [2].

So, Is Exercise Beneficial For People With Bipolar Disorder?

Exercise For Bipolar Disorder: Can It Help Ease The Symptoms?

The treatment of bipolar disorder is generally based on medication and therapy, but studies have shown that adding exercise to the treatment plan can have positive effects for some individuals [3].

As a result of exercising, your body releases endorphins, known as the brain's "feel-good" chemicals. Higher levels of endorphins over time can make you feel better, which might be beneficial for people who suffer from bipolar disorder.

People with bipolar disorder may benefit from exercise as it helps alleviate hypomanic symptoms, which are less severe than manic symptoms. It may also improve sleep quality [4].

What are the best exercises for people with bipolar disorder?

Exercises such as walking, running, and swimming may provide a calming effect for some people with bipolar disorder [5].

You can reduce your risk of getting or worsening these other health problems associated with bipolar disorder by exercising. Exercising can reduce your risk of stroke, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Can exercise worsen bipolar disorder?

There is, however, a risk that exercise could exacerbate manic symptoms for some people suffering from bipolar disorder.

Exercise could worsen both manic and hypomanic episodes, meaning people with bipolar disorder could experience worsening manic symptoms as a result of exercise [6].

Bipolar disorder: how much exercise can help?

Talk with your physician about including exercise in your treatment plan if you suffer from bipolar disorder. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, people with bipolar disorder should exercise for 30 minutes per day, three to five days per week [7].

Obesity And Bipolar Disorder

Some people with bipolar disorder may develop obesity because of their use of certain medications for bipolar disorder. If the medication causes metabolic changes, your body may not be able to burn calories as efficiently as it used to. Or the medication may simply increase your appetite [8].

If you gain weight suddenly after starting any of these medications, consult your doctor immediately. However, never stop taking a medication or change your dosage without consulting your physician first.

On A Final Note...

Despite being a lifelong disease, bipolar disorder can be managed with the proper treatment. While medication is typically the primary treatment option, exercise can also be beneficial.

Consult your doctor to determine the right type of exercise for you, and remember that different types of exercise work differently for different individuals.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.