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Depression – Improves self confidence

Evidence Summary (Updated 2022)
Expert consensus at the workshop and qualitative literature reports an improvement in self-confidence in depressed patients.(7) Lack of confidence is often considered a barrier to physical activity.(7) From qualitative data, this improvement may be as a result of the combination of improved sleep, healthy weight maintenance and controlled appetite.(6)
The get-set-to-go programme by Mind found a sense of competency and mastery through PA increased self-confidence and self-esteem.(8)
Evidence reviews have shown that improvements in self-esteem secondary to physical activity are supported with weak evidence however overall improvements in self-worth are as a result of change in multiple factors such as body appearance and capabilities and can change self-perception.(9,10)

Quality of Evidence
Grade C – Low quality
Strength of recommendation
Grade 1 – Strong recommendation
Conclusion
Physical activity can be recommended to enhance overall self-worth and improve confidence.

References

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