Lifting weights also lifts Marcy Hansen's spirits. Four months ago, she started a weight lifting class that she says changed her life.

"I did struggle some with depression in the past and I just don't have any ‘down' days like that anymore. I feel good and I feel better with the results of the workout," said Hansen.

Trainers like Denise Craft say any kind of exercise whether it is weight lifting or time on the treadmill can make everyone feel better emotionally and she says even a small workout can make a big difference.

"If you're not used to doing absolutely anything and you start doing it, 20 minutes is a huge, monumental amount of time," said Craft.

Researchers say exercise boosts your seratonin levels. Seratonin is a chemical found in your brain and usually, depressed patients don't have enough of it.

"Medication helps so much but your own chemicals that your body makes and the seratonin that your body increases and the toxins that exercise takes out of your body. When you are done, you feel so good and you feel more in control," said Craft.

"It gives a lift, an emotional change that occurs with the exercise. It pumps you up and makes you feel better," said Hansen.

Marcy says she's never felt so good and she owes it all to her trips to the gym.

Find out how Alegent Health Lakeside Wellness Center can help you with all of your fitness needs.