eli5: Why does working out helps so much with mental health?

Question

I have OCD and working out ALWAYS makes me feel better whenever I have spikes. How does that work?

In: 896

Answer 1

My father says the same thing, it actually has the opposite effect on me. I find working out keeps me in my own head where my anxiety and depression become exponentially worse. then all the self doubt starts ramping up and I usually end up giving up on trying to help myself through fitness.