Posted by SLS on November 28, 2009, at 7:02:16
In reply to Re: I'm an exercise skept » mtdewcmu, posted by morganator on November 28, 2009, at 3:15:34
We might have a slight problem.
"I think that this is another case of needing to acknowledge the interindividual differences that exist in the presentations of what we are all calling "depression".
I am convinced that many people are unresponsive to exercise as a treatment for depression. I am one such person. Also, there are plenty of people who do respond to exercise. I don't see anyone here who is being anything but a fine human being who wants to help others. Each person is passionate in their beliefs. However, these beliefs seem to be based upon one's own experiences, and it is hard for anyone to accept as globally applicable the beliefs of another. I think the majority of people who do benefit from exercise want very badly for their experience to be global. That way, they can contribute to the attainment of wellness in others. Those people for whom exercise has no beneficial effect on their illness may not want to be told that they can do something that they actually cannot. It is altruistic to want to prevent others from feeling somehow inferior if they, too, don't respond to exercise. It is a vindication.
Just like atypical major depression often presents with reactive mood (improvement of mood based upon positive external events), I think that many people are reactive to exercise. Perhaps there is some overlap. My guess is that melancholic depression and bipolar depression are not responsive to exercise, especially when psychomotor retardation is present. This is nothing more than conjecture on my part, though. Of course, it may not be globally accurate.
If we were all the same, we would respond to the same one drug. If everyone were to respond to exercise, why would we need drugs at all?
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:926857
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20091127/msgs/927257.html