Forbes July 30, 2024
In a time where mental health awareness is more crucial than ever, there’s increasing recognition of the important role of sports and exercise in promoting well-being. Dr. Ramaswamy Viswanathan, M.D., Dr.Med.Sc., the current president of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), sits down with me to share his insights on the intersection of lifestyle psychiatry, sports, and mental health.
Dr. Viswanathan is passionate about highlighting the six pillars of lifestyle psychiatry during his term as APA’s president. These six pillars include nutrition, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, social connection, and avoidance of risky substances. “Physical activity is crucial for mental and physical health,” he explains. “Research, including neuroimaging and biochemical studies, has shown that exercise increases hippocampal volume and promotes...