But in some extreme cases, exercise can become so addictive it threatens a person's physical and mental health. Continue to work out despite illness or injury, such as degenerative joints, or in spite of dangerous conditions, like running outside with storms approaching. Indeed, most exercise addicts prefer to work out alone. Feel a lack of satisfaction after exercising. An exercise addiction is often a symptom of deeper problems, such as obsessive-compulsive disorders or depression.
Exercise can become dangerous if it causes weight to drop far below recommended levels.
Loss of menstruation for a few months can be a danger sign. By treating the underlying psychological disorder, with medication or talk therapy, exercise addiction usually becomes less of a problem. For a free flier on exercise addiction, call Fairview at 672-7272. Paul Richardson, M.D., is on the medical staff of Fairview-University Medical Center and is medical director of mental health services at Fairview Southdale Hospital. He is a practicing physician with Behavioral Healthcare Providers.