Final answer:
Regular exercise has a substantial positive effect on adult mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and serving as an adjunct therapy for various mental health disorders. It provides both short-term mood enhancements and long-term improvements in cognitive functioning and stress regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of Regular Exercise on Mental Health
Regular exercise has a significant positive impact on the mental health of adults. Exercise not only improves symptoms associated with central nervous system disorders, but it also serves as an adjunct therapy for conditions like major depressive disorder and anxiety. The American Academy of Neurology recommends regular exercise for individuals with mild cognitive impairment, and exercise has been shown to be beneficial for those with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Exercise is compared favorably to pharmaceutical antidepressants for treating mild-to-moderate depression due to its ability to increase the biosynthesis of neurochemicals that induce euphoria, known as "runner's high" or "rower's high." Additionally, exercise strengthens cognitive functions and has been shown to reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia. Regular physical activity can also lead to a decrease in stress and an improvement in body image and self-esteem.
As part of the cognitive benefits, exercising leads to a reduction in anxiety and depression, helping to combat the negative effects of stress on brain function and memory. Exercise facilitates a positive affect and inhibits negative affect while decreasing the biological response to acute psychological stress. Overall, exercise serves as a robust tool for maintaining and improving mental health.