Exercise has been shown to be effective in improving mental health and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. However, the recommendation to exercise can come with a catch. There is a fine line between exercise as self-care and developing eating disorders, especially for people with mental health struggles who are more prone to developing eating disorders. The expectations around exercise can also add stress and further aggravate current struggles.

It’s important to understand that exercise is not a cure for mental health issues. It can be a helpful tool when used properly, but it should not be viewed as a solution or a replacement for other forms of treatment such as therapy or medication.

When it comes to using exercise as a form of self-care, it’s important to approach it from a place of forming a connection with the body rather than focusing solely on weight loss or physical appearance. Exercise should be done for enjoyment rather than obligation or punishment.

Unfortunately, societal pressures often push us towards viewing exercise as a means of achieving an idealized body type which can lead to negative self-talk and feelings of shame if goals are not met. This can create an unhealthy relationship with food and exercise leading to disordered eating patterns.

People who struggle with mental health are particularly vulnerable to these societal pressures due to the added stressors they already face. Negative self-talk and distorted body image can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression.

In conclusion, while exercise can be beneficial for mental health when approached from a place of self-care, it’s important to avoid falling into the trap of using it solely for weight loss or physical appearance goals. It’s also important to recognize that exercise is not a cure-all solution for mental health issues, and should be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment.