What is Depression
Depression is a serious mental illness that goes far beyond sadness. It affects the daily life of the affected person and can lead to symptoms such as persistent low mood, lack of motivation, sleep disturbances, and a lack of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable. There are different forms of depression, the most common being "major depression," which is characterized by a combination of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms (American Psychiatric Association , 2013).
Depression and Weight Training
Strength training can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. On the one hand, strength training is often associated with an improvement in general well-being, both physical and mental. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, also known as "happy hormones," and can help to improve mood and reduce stress ( Dishman & O'Connor, 2009).
On the other hand, psychological stress can occur in connection with intensive strength training, especially in the area of " enhanced bodybuilding". The use of steroids and other performance enhancers interferes immensely with the hormonal balance and can lead to a variety of psychological problems for bodybuilder pros, including anxiety, aggression and an increased risk of depression (Pope et al., 2004).
Connection Between Enhanced Bodybuilding and Depression
While these substances may facilitate faster muscle growth and performance, they are also associated with significant mental health risks. They can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body, leading to changes in mood and increasing the risk of depression and other mental illnesses ( Kanayama et al., 2008).
The right mindset in bodybuilding can make all the difference – not only for physical progress but also for mental strength. Learn how to optimize your mental approach. Read more here.
Signs of Depression
The symptoms of depression are varied, but common signs include:
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Persistent sadness or emptiness : A feeling of sadness that lasts for weeks or months.
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Loss of interest : Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
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Loss of energy and lack of motivation : Constant feeling of tiredness, even after sufficient sleep.
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Sleep disorders : Either insomnia or excessive sleeping.
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Feelings of worthlessness or guilt : Excessive negative thoughts or feelings of guilt for no apparent reason.
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Changes in eating habits : either loss of appetite or overeating.
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Suicidal ideation : Thoughts about harming oneself or ending one's life.
These symptoms may vary from person to person, but if they persist for more than two weeks or significantly interfere with daily life, it is advisable to seek professional help (American Psychiatric Association , 2013).
What Can You Do About Depression?
1. Psychotherapy : Cognitive behavioral therapy in particular has been shown to be effective in changing negative thought patterns and improving the ability to deal with stressful thoughts ( Cuijpers et al., 2016).
2. Drug treatment : Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help correct the chemical imbalances in the brain associated with depression ( Muench & Hamer, 2010).
3. Exercise and physical activity : Regular physical activity can relieve the symptoms of depression because it releases endorphins, which act as natural mood enhancers (Deuster et al., 2008).
4. Social support : Interacting with family, friends or support groups can provide emotional support and contribute to recovery.
How Can You Help Those Affected?
• Listen and support : Show empathy and understanding for the difficulties the person is experiencing. Avoid minimizing the feelings, but acknowledge them.
• Encourage professional help : Encourage the person to see a therapist or psychiatrist. Depression is treatable, and professional help is often the first step toward recovery.
• Shared activities : Offer to do light activities together, such as walks or gentle exercise, to motivate and support the affected person to get moving again.
Sources :
• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Cuijpers , P., Karyotaki , E., Weitz, E., Andersson, G. (2016). Psychotherapy for depression in adults: A meta-analysis of comparative efficacy. Journal of Affective Disorders , 202, 511-517.
• Deuster , PA, Silverman, MN, & Pugh, MD (2008). Exercise and stress: A review of the psychophysiological effects of physical activity. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine , 2(5), 398-410.
• Griffiths, S., Murray, S.B., & Touyz , S. (2011). Bigorexia: A critical review of the literature . Journal of Eating Disorders , 1(1), 4.
• Kanayama, G., Hudson, J.I., & Pope, H.G. (2008). Illicit anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Current Psychiatry Reports , 10(5), 404-410.
• Muench, F., & Hamer, AM (2010). A review of the side effects of antidepressants. General Hospital Psychiatry , 32(5), 10-19.
• Pope, H.G., Phillips, K.A., & Olivardia , R. (2004). The Adonis complex: The secret crisis of male body obsession . Free Press.
• Dishman, R.K., & O'Connor, P.J. (2009). Lessons in exercise neurobiology: The case of endorphins. Mental Health and Physical Activity , 2(1), 4-9.
