Supportive Links
There are many articles and papers put out by a number of groups, organizations and associations that have spoken to the positive effect of participating in physical activity and in taking proper nutrition.
Below are just a few of the many sources you may consider for further information on the previous topics.
If you would like addition information and or evidence on how physical fitness and proper nutrition can help aid in a number of recovery situations, please feel free to reach out to me.
SELF-ESTEEM AND SELF-IMAGE.
The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
“They feel more energetic throughout the day, sleep better at night, have sharper memories, and feel more relaxed and positive about themselves and their lives. And it’s also powerful medicine for many common mental health challenges.”
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/exercise-fitness/emotional-benefits-of-exercise.htm
Exercise: 7 benefits of regular physical activity
“The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore. And the benefits of exercise are yours for the taking, regardless of your age, sex or physical ability.”
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389?pg=1
Do Sports and Other Physical Activities Build Self-Esteem?
“Adolescents who participated in sports clubs had greater well-being, including being better socially adjusted, feeling less anxious, and generally being happier about their lives”
The importance of physical activity
“In short, physical activity has the capacity to reduce symptoms of mental health problems (anxiety and depression) as well as improve overall feelings of mental well-being.”
http://www.centreforconfidence.co.uk/flourishing-lives.php?p=cGlkPTE3Nw==
EATING DISORDERS.
Eating Disorders
“Up to 8 percent of Americans suffer from an eating disorder. . . .Eating disorders are not a choice. They are diseases that affect men and women of all ages, races and backgrounds.” https://www.drugrehab.com/eating-disorders/
UF study: Exercise could help prevent, treat eating disorders
“But for most people, exercise is a very positive thing . . . The effects on self-esteem, depression, mood and body image can reduce the risk of eating pathologies.”
http://news.ufl.edu/archive/2011/01/uf-study-exercise-could-help-prevent-treat-eating-disorders.html
The Role of Physical Therapy in the Treatment of Eating Disorders
“The evidence indicates there is increased treatment compliance, improved therapeutic relationship, decreased food preoccupation, decreased bulimic symptoms and decreased negative exercise behaviors with supervised exercise”
http://melioguide.com/osteoporosis-nutrition/physical-therapy-and-eating-disorders/
Exercise For Eating Disorder Patients
“One group who might not immediately come to mind when thinking about who can benefit from physical activity, though, are people who are recovering from an eating disorder. Yet accounts from physical therapists and athletic trainers show that structured exercise programs and in some cases, physical therapy, can help these patients on their path to recovery.”
http://physical-therapy.advanceweb.com/Features/Articles/Exercise-For-Eating-Disorder-Patients.aspx
ADDICTION THERAPY.
Exercise an Effective Treatment in Rehab
“The potential benefits of exercise for those who are in an addiction rehabilitation programmed are impressive. They can improve the physical and mental well being of the individual and possibly reduce the risk of relapse.”
http://alcoholrehab.com/alcoholism/exercise-for-alcohol-rehab-treatment/
Substance use recovery and diet
“When a person feels better, they are less likely to start using alcohol and drugs again. Because balanced nutrition helps improve mood and health, it is important to encourage a healthy diet in a person recovering from alcohol and other drug problems.”
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002149.htm
Physical Activity May Prevent Substance Abuse
“Although people tend to think of exercise as good for the body, it also benefits the brain. As it invigorates the heart and lungs, it stimulates the brain's reward pathway and heightens mood-boosting neurochemicals.”
POST-TRAMATIC STRESS DISORDER
PTSD & Exercise: What every exercise professional should know
“The absence of a cure makes PTSD treatment a multifaceted challenge. There is emerging evidence that exercise can be a valuable component of a comprehensive PTSD treatment plan”
https://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Article%20folder/PTSD.html
Physical Activity Reduces Stress
“Studies show that it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate.”
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - Recovery
“Exercise and be active to reduce how tense you feel. People who are fit usually have less anxiety, depression, and stress than people who aren't active.”
“Eat a balanced diet to help your body deal with tension and stress. Whole grains, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and protein are part of a balanced diet.”
http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/tc/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-recovery
MENTAL HEALTH
-American Psychological Association
The exercise effect
“Evidence is mounting for the benefits of exercise, yet psychologists don’t often use exercise as part of their treatment arsenal.”
“Researchers are still working out the details of that action . . . But as evidence piles up, the exercise-mental health connection is becoming impossible to ignore.”
http://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/12/exercise.aspx
-The Mayo Clinic
Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms
“The links between anxiety, depression and exercise aren't entirely clear — but working out and other forms of physical activity can definitely ease symptoms of anxiety or depression and make you feel better.”
-U.S. News
7 Mind-Blowing Benefits of Exercise
“Exercise is the single best thing you can do for your brain in terms of mood, memory, and learning.”
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/diet-fitness/slideshows/7-mind-blowing-benefits-of-exercise