Key Indicators Of Unhealthy Exercise Habits

Feeling Out of Control Over Exercising

When an obsession with exercise becomes addictive, affected individuals will feel like they've lost control over their life. This happens when individuals are aware they have a problem, but don't feel like they can stop. The loss of control is a serious sign of mental health problems. Depending on a patient's circumstances, the underlying cause can vary. Some individuals overexercise to self-medicate depression and anxiety, and some have obsessive-compulsive disorder or other obsessive tendencies, and they don't know how to break the cycle. Some individuals engage in compulsive exercise in an attempt to get control over their lives. Body image issues and disordered eating can also contribute to unhealthy outlooks on exercise. If individuals are ever in a place where they know they need help, they should either call their doctor or an anonymous helpline for resources.