A common problem with chronically ill patients is that they feel stressed and anxious about their condition, not to mention their treatment options. These feelings of anxiety can not only adversely affect their emotional state, but the level of distress can be enough to impede the proper adherence to the protocols that are designed to promote healing.

Now, a new study has found that regular exercise can be effective at reducing anxiety, and by extension, possibly help out in the recovery process. The findings, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, were the result of an analysis of over 40 clinical trials that followed almost 3000 patients with a wide range of medical conditions, which included heart disease, arthritis, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. In 90% of the studies, patients who exercised displayed fewer symptoms of nervousness, apprehension, and worry.

Overall, doctors found that patients who exercised on a regular basis experienced a 20% reduction in their symptoms of anxiety when compared to patients who did not exercise. Therefore, physical activity like walking or lifting weights could turn out to be an important component of overcoming illness.

The study also found that while longer sessions (30 minutes or more) of exercise had better results, routines that had shorter durations (3-12 weeks) seemed to be more effective than those with longer durations (more than 12 weeks). The reason for this might be due to greater participation and adherence when exercise regimens are shorter.

The authors point out that there have been extensive studies that have examined the effect of exercise on reducing depression, but there is less information about the impact on anxiety. Anxiety is a significant consideration during illness because of the role it can play on the health of a patient as well as their ability to take care of themselves. This is especially relevant in light of the growing number of elderly people in this country. As the population ages, chronic medical conditions could very well increase, as well the stress and anxiety that often accompany them. This highlights the need for low-cost, effective, and accessible methods of treatment that have fewer side effects.

Anxiety is how our bodies respond to tense situations that cause us to be stressed. They can occur during any number of circumstances, including in the home (especially if you have young children), at work or school, and during a hospital stay. In general, it is a coping device to help us deal with these problems, but when it becomes an excessive situation, the consequences of anxiety can be debilitating disorders that often require medical attention.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) describes five main types of anxiety disorders:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Panic Disorder
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder)

Through continuing research, there are a number of treatment options and therapies that can help people overcome these disorders and allow them to live normal, productive, and fulfilling lives.

If you suffer from anxiety, speak with your physician about your options. For more information about anxiety disorders, visit the website for NIMH.

And before you embark on an exercise program, know your abilities and limitations. Consult with your physician or an experienced trainer.