Impacto del sedentarismo en la salud mental.

Abstract

The lifestyle of the last decades has generated an increase in sedentary behaviours, and paired with the decrease in physical exercising, it has led to a negative effect on mental health. A sedentary lifestyle is known to increase the risk of suffering from different types of mental disorders, and as a result, it can generate sleep disorders, in addition to a low level of happiness. Among the most frequent conditions that are associated with a sedentary lifestyle are depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, phsychologycal distress, loneliness and even suicidal idiation.  Practicing physical activity has been shown with substantial evidence to be one of the most relevant treatments for improving and managing mental health deterioration, as it has benefits on a physical, psychological and social level. Several of the benefits attributed to reducing sedentary activities are improvements in daily mood, sleep pattern, cognitive function, self-esteem, quality of life, stress management, as well as significant cardiovascular risk reduction.