Research has indicated that a straightforward daily routine—physical activity—can alleviate depression with an efficacy comparable to that of pharmaceutical treatments, according to Fox News.
A recent summary conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration, which synthesized findings from 73 separate studies involving close to 5,000 adults, demonstrated that the reduction in depressive symptoms achieved through exercise versus that achieved via antidepressant medication was either negligible or non-existent.
The systematic review further uncovered that physical activity performed at low to moderate intensity yielded greater benefits than high-intensity workouts. Specifically, combined regimens incorporating strength training proved more beneficial than those consisting solely of aerobic exercises. However, the review’s authors caution that exercise is not universally suitable, emphasizing the necessity of selecting an activity regimen the individual can sustain over time.
The investigators explicitly mentioned limitations to the evidence base, noting that several included studies carried a significant risk of bias, and the long-term efficacy of exercise interventions remains undetermined. Adverse effects reported from engaging in physical activity were uncommon, generally manifesting as minor muscle or joint soreness.
Depression impacts millions of adults across the United States, presenting symptoms ranging from persistent sadness and anhedonia to sleep disturbances and suicidal ideation. While pharmacological agents and psychotherapy remain the established frontline treatments, this novel evidence suggests that incorporating exercise should be viewed as a safe, readily accessible adjunct strategy for mood enhancement.
About the Author
