Introduction
Women’s mental health is an issue of growing global concern, due to the high rates of mental and emotional disorders affecting this group. Studies indicate that women are more likely to develop mental disorders compared to men, due to a combination of biological, social and psychological factors (Steel et al., 2014). This article addresses the relevance of physical exercise in the prevention and treatment of these disorders, highlighting its implications for women’s mental health.
Contributing Factors to Mental Disorders in Women
The prevalence of mental disorders in women can be attributed to several factors, including double working hours, hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause, as well as social issues such as gender-based violence, inequality and lack of socioeconomic support (Kumar, 2019). The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these conditions, increasing levels of anxiety, panic, and depression due to social isolation, unemployment, and lack of physical activity (Nabuco et al., 2020).
Benefits of Physical Exercise
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), regular physical exercise is essential for preventing various mental illnesses. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, running and cycling, has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving cognitive function and promoting an overall sense of well-being (WHO, 2020). Studies show that physical exercise can increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and endorphins, which are crucial for regulating mood and reducing stress (Oliveira et al., 2011).
Physical Exercises and the Nervous System
Physical exercise not only improves mental health, but also has positive effects on the nervous system. Regular physical activity increases neuroplasticity, improves cerebral blood circulation and promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a vital area for memory and learning (Erickson et al., 2015). Furthermore, regular physical activity can strengthen the immune system, allowing for a faster and more effective response to pathogens, which is particularly beneficial for mental health (Pedersen & Hoffman-Goetz, 2000).
Clinical Implications
Including physical exercise as part of the treatment of mental disorders in women can bring substantial benefits. The combination of physical activities with psychological and pharmacological interventions can lead to a significant improvement in patients’ quality of life. Studies indicate that active women have fewer symptoms of depression, better quality of sleep and greater self-esteem, factors that are essential for balanced mental health (Wolff et al., 2011).
Final Considerations
Physical exercise plays a crucial role in promoting women’s mental health. They not only help prevent and treat various mental disorders, but also improve the overall quality of life. It is essential that public policies encourage the practice of physical activities at all ages, providing access to exercise programs that are inclusive and adapted to the needs of women.
Reference:
Steel, Z., Marnane, C., Iranpour, C., Chey, T., Jackson, J. W., Patel, V., & Silove, D. (2014). The global prevalence of common mental disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis 1980–2013. International Journal of Epidemiology, 43(2), 476-493. https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyu038
Kumar, A. (2019). Violence against women in Jharkhand: issues, challenges and way forward. MOJ Women’s Health, 8(1), 31-35.
Nabuco, G., de Oliveira, MHPP, & Afonso, MPD (2020). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. Brazilian Journal of Family and Community Medicine, 15(42), 2532. https://doi.org/10.5712/rbmfc15(42)2532
World Health Organization. (2020). WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behavior.
Oliveira, EN, Aguiar, RC, Almeida, MTO, Cordeiro, SE, & Lira, TB (2011). Benefits of physical activity for mental health. Public Health, 8(50), 126-130.
Erickson, K.I., Hillman, C.H., & Kramer, A.F. (2015). Physical activity, brain, and cognition. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 4, 27-32. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2015.01.005
Pedersen, B. K., & Hoffman-Goetz, L. (2000). Exercise and the immune system: regulation, integration, and adaptation. Physiological Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.2000.80.3.1055
Wolff, E., Gaudlitz, K., von Lindenberger, B. L., Plag, J., Heinz, A., & Ströhle, A. (2011). Exercise and physical activity in mental disorders. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 261(2), 186-191. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00406-011-0254-y
