exercise therapy

the prevention or treatment of disorders and chronic disease through regular, repetitive physical activity that enhances fitness and mobility. This type of therapy is designed to improve the functional capacity of body structures and has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects for many conditions, such as the alleviation of symptoms of depression and multiple sclerosis and the reduction in risk of developing cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. More generally, there is widespread research evidence for a positive relationship between regular exercise and several indices of mental health and physical well-being.

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Psychology term of the day

December 26th 2024

mental disorder

any condition characterized by cognitive and emotional disturbances, abnormal behaviors, impaired functioning, or any combination of these. Such disorders cannot be accounted for solely by environmental circumstances and may involve physiological, genetic, chemical, social, and other factors. Specific classifications of mental disorders are elaborated in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (see DSM–IV–TR; DSM–5) and the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases. Also called mental illness; psychiatric disorder; psychiatric illness; psychological disorder. See also psychopathology.