Exercise therapy

What is exercise therapy for bipolar disorder?

People with serious mental illnesses are more likely to be sedentary than the general population and are consequently at high risk for chronic medical conditions associated with inactivity (see the related physical activity topic). Physical activity reduces the risk of these medical conditions, and positive psychological effects have also been reported, including improved quality of life. Exercise also has the potential to alleviate secondary symptoms including low self-esteem and social withdrawal.

What is the evidence for exercise therapy?

Low quality evidence is unable to determine the benefits of exercise specifically for the symptoms of bipolar disorder. More research is needed.

November 2021

Image: © Li Zhongfei – stock.adobe.com


Last updated at: 4:36 pm, 9th November 2021
To view documentation related to this topic download the files below
Fact Sheet Technical Commentary

NeuRA Libraries

Title Colour Legend:
Green - Topic summary is available.
Orange - Topic summary is being compiled.
Red - Topic summary has no current systematic review available.