In a recent interview with Dr. Ramaswamy Viswanathan, the current President of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he emphasized the importance of sports and exercise in promoting mental health and well-being. Dr. Viswanathan discussed the six pillars of lifestyle psychiatry, which include nutrition, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, social connection, and avoidance of risky substances. He highlighted the benefits of physical activity on mental and physical health, citing research that shows exercise increases hippocampal volume and promotes cognitive function.
While participating in sports can have positive effects on mental health, Dr. Viswanathan acknowledged that there can be concerns regarding self-image and performance. He also addressed the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in sports, emphasizing the importance of proper treatment and individuals’ openness about their struggles. Dr. Viswanathan advocated for incorporating exercise into mental health treatment plans, noting that studies have shown exercise can be as effective as SSRIs in treating depression and anxiety.
In both professional and recreational sports settings, Dr. Viswanathan stressed the significance of prioritizing mental health, as it can greatly impact physical performance. He discussed the importance of addressing psychological readiness to return to play after a physical injury, noting that a calculated approach is essential to ensure the athlete’s well-being. Dr. Viswanathan envisioned a future where sports psychiatry is a recognized sub-specialty within psychiatry, highlighting the need for specialists with expertise in psychological and medication factors in the sports environment.
The APA is dedicated to promoting the integration of mental health care with lifestyle interventions and sports settings. Dr. Viswanathan emphasized the importance of a balanced approach that includes not only physical activity but also nutrition, sleep, stress management, and avoidance of risky behaviors. He sees a promising future for the intersection of sports, exercise, and mental health as the APA continues to advocate for these principles. Overall, Dr. Viswanathan’s insights shed light on the crucial role of sports and exercise in promoting mental well-being and the potential benefits of integrating these practices into mental health care.
