Running for better mental health

Jessica is here with advice of the week to help you get better on your miles. Jessica: There’s a lot of science showing that running benefits mental health. >> Just putting on your shoes and going outside is the most helpful thing to do. Jessica: Doctor. Justin Popso knows a thing or two about stress. He is the primary care physician in the emergency department of his Tufts Medical Center. >> I guess I’ve always been a bit of a runner, but when I started working here I was working mostly at night so it was a good way to enhance my sleep. I’ve made such progress just by having fun. Jessica: Doctor. POPSO says his running routine has many other benefits. >> I find it helps me manage stress in so many ways.One is work. It’s stress. Also, you know, work-life balance. I’ve noticed that I may be stressed out at home and that I stay a little calmer when I go for a run. >> Exercise is a really effective way to manage stress. Jessica: Doctor. Rebecca Brendel is president of the American Psychiatric Association. She says there’s a lot of science backing up what she says. POPSO and others have spoken.Running has been associated with improved memory and focus, improved multitasking ability, and a boost in mood, which many call Runners Her High. >> When you start exercising, your heart beats faster, your lungs breathe a little harder, and your body produces chemicals called endorphins. And these endorphins have properties that help reduce our anxiety, lift our moods, help us focus and pay more attention. Jessica: There’s also a social component. >> Many people run to spend time alone in their heads, but they have their own thoughts. It’s also something we often do in groups or with others to keep us motivated and build relationships. Jessica: But Dr. Brendel says the goal is to make running, or any exercise routine, what we want to do. Thoughts are really just gearing up for failure. The most important thing is to reduce stress and incorporate it into our lives in ways that are welcome rather than frightening. >> I would say just go out and do it. No problem to go.Uh, you know, minutes here, minutes there

Running for better mental health

Updated: January 17, 2023 6:02 PM EST

While many people add running to their routine for physical health, research shows that it can be beneficial for our mental health as well.

While many people add running to their routine for physical health, research shows that it can be beneficial for our mental health as well.