Here are a few reasons why:
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Setting and achieving goals: Taking on a hard physical challenge requires a significant amount of time, effort, and dedication. It requires setting a goal, creating a plan, and taking consistent action to achieve that goal. For someone who is struggling with depression, setting and achieving goals can be a powerful way to build self-confidence and a sense of purpose. It can also help shift focus away from negative thoughts and emotions.
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Boosting self-esteem: Completing a hard physical challenge can be a major accomplishment. It requires pushing through physical and mental barriers, overcoming obstacles, and staying committed even when it's difficult. This can help boost self-esteem and provide a sense of pride in oneself and one's abilities.
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Building resilience: Taking on a hard physical challenge can also help build resilience - the ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. This can be particularly valuable for someone who is struggling with depression, as it can help them develop the skills they need to cope with difficult emotions and situations.
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Creating a sense of community: Many hard physical challenges, like running a marathon or competing in a bodybuilding competition, involve training and competing alongside others. This can create a sense of community and social connection, which can be a powerful antidote to feelings of loneliness and isolation that often accompany depression.
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Providing a sense of purpose: Taking on a hard physical challenge can provide a sense of purpose and direction. It can give someone something to focus on and work towards, which can be particularly valuable for someone who is struggling to find meaning in their life.
Of course, taking on a hard physical challenge isn't a cure-all for depression. It's important to seek professional help if you are struggling with depression or any other mental health condition. But for some people, the physical and mental challenges of training for and completing a marathon, Ironman, or bodybuilding competition can be a powerful way to overcome their depression and build a stronger, more resilient self.