0
0
February 16, 2024
A comprehensive review of 218 trials involving 14,170 participants has revealed that exercise, particularly walking or jogging, yoga, and strength training, can significantly alleviate symptoms of depression, either as standalone treatments or alongside traditional therapies like psychotherapy and medication.
Depression, affecting more than 300 million people globally according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), poses a significant public health challenge. While exercise has long been recommended as part of depression management, guidelines have varied on the most effective forms and intensity of exercise.
Published in The BMJ, the study conducted by researchers from Spain, Denmark, Australia, and Finland suggests that the more vigorous the exercise, the greater the potential benefits. They propose that exercises such as dancing, walking or jogging, yoga, strength training, mixed aerobic exercises, and tai chi or qigong could be integrated into treatment protocols as core treatments for depression.
The research found significant reductions in depression symptoms compared to active controls across various exercise modalities. Notably, dance and moderate exercise like walking or jogging showed large and moderate reductions in depression, respectively. Strength training, yoga, and tai chi or qigong also demonstrated effectiveness, with yoga being particularly beneficial for older adults and strength training for younger individuals.
Furthermore, combining exercise with standard treatments like SSRIs or psychotherapy showed additional benefits, suggesting exercise’s potential as an adjunct therapy.
Lead researcher Dr. [Name] highlighted the importance of integrating exercise into clinical practice guidelines for depression, emphasizing vigorous-intensity exercise as particularly beneficial. The study suggests that health systems should consider offering exercise interventions as alternatives or complements to traditional treatments, while also addressing barriers to participation.
However, the researchers noted limitations in the quality of evidence, as well as potential barriers such as physical, psychological, or social factors hindering exercise participation for some individuals.
Despite these challenges, the study underscores the potential of exercise not only to improve mental health but also to enhance overall well-being. By promoting social interaction, mindfulness, and exposure to nature, exercise offers a holistic approach to managing depression, offering hope for millions worldwide grappling with this debilitating condition.
