Exercise as a Prescription for Mental Health

Mental health complaints present a significant burden to the healthcare system. In the United States, roughly 20% of adults experience a mental health disorder each year. Long-term adherence to traditional pharmacologic and psychiatric therapies is poor; the time commitment, cost, and pharmacologic side effects of therapy can be substantial. Physical activity as an alternative or adjuvant strategy to promote mental health and treat mental illness shows comparable outcomes in depression and anxiety treatment, without negative side effects.