Running has cleared my head and I feel "normal" for the first time in years.

[runningqueen]

I am a name changer and do not usually post on this board. I have suffered with low level depression and anxiety disorder for years with every couple of months deteriorating into panic disorder.

About 2 months ago I started jogging and now run 30 minutes a day 4 - 5 times a week. In the past month I have started to sort out all my finances and started redecorating my home - two things that I would have felt impossible to get on with before I started running.

I have been advised to exercise before and had indoor exercise equipment but it never worked for me the way that going out running has seemed to. I know it sounds incredibly simplistic but I am nearly forty and I feel better than I have done in years. I just wanted to pass it on really because I feel like my life has changed. Maybe if you are dealing with something similar you could give it a try.

[BreeVanDerCampLGJ]

Well done you.

[wheelybug]

Oh gosh - I second the motion !! Glad its helping you.

I do not have depression but have been going through a difficult-ish time with failing to conceive DC2/fertility treatment etc and started running in January and I credit it with keeping me feeling (most of the time) level headed.

(and I've lost about 17 pounds which also makes me feel shallow happy)

[runningqueen]

Well I finally lost the last 12 pounds of baby weight so that really cheered me up also.

I don't really know what it is about it. I just feel so happy and upbeat when I come back especially if I go first thing in the morning I feel good for the day. A knock on effect is that I don't want to eat crap after it so my diet has improved, which obviously helps with the depression as well.

[ivykaty44]

Well done you,

[morningpaper]

Lovely post, well done you! People don't believe that exercise and a good diet can make a difference, but for some people it can COMPLETELY turn things around. Well done.

[oneplusone]

Wow, you have all inspired me to have a go. But, who is looking after your DC's whilst you're out running? That is my biggest problem, I have nobody to mind DS who is 2 so how can I manage a run?

[fishie]

hooray for you runningqueen. me too and it is so confidence boosting.

oneplusone i have exercise times absolutely set. this means firstly that i have childcare covered and secondly that i really do have to do it.

maybe your local leisure centre has a creche? or sure start (if you are in an area) will have arrangements.