Schizophrenia
Healthy Lifestyle Tips
Exercise has long been recognized for its benefits in treating mild to moderate depression and there is some evidence that it may also be helpful in reducing anxiety.85 In one reported case, physical activity improved the functioning of a man diagnosed with schizophrenia.86 In another reported case, aggressive outbursts in a schizophrenic patient were reduced after he began exercising.87 A preliminary trial of an exercise program for hospitalized psychiatric patients with varying diagnoses resulted in significantly reduced symptoms of depression and an insignificant trend towards reduced anxiety.88 Additional research is needed to determine the specific benefits of exercise in people with schizophrenia.