Depression is a common and disabling illness, affecting more than 100 million people worldwide.
Can a few laps around the block actually solve your
emotional problems? Probably not, but a regular exercise program might help. A review of studies stretching back to 1981 concluded
that regular exercise can improve mood in people with mild to moderate
depression. It also may play a
supporting role in treating severe depression.
A study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 1999, divided 156 men and women
with depression into three groups. One group took part in an aerobic exercise
program, another took the antidepressant drug, Zoloft, and a third did both. At
the 16-week mark, depression had eased in all three groups. About 60%–70% of
the people in all three groups could no longer be classed as having major
depression. In fact, group scores on two rating scales of depression were
essentially the same. This suggests that for those who need or wish to avoid
drugs, exercise might be an acceptable substitute for antidepressants.
A follow-up to that study found that exercise’s effects
lasted longer than those of antidepressants. Researchers checked in with 133 of
the original patients six months after the first study ended. They found that
the people who exercised regularly after completing the study, regardless of
which treatment they were on originally, were less likely to relapse into
depression.
Scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic
exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and
stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem. Even five minutes of
aerobic exercise can stimulate anti-anxiety effects.
So, what are you waiting for?
To learn how Fitness for Health can help you improve your
mind-body connection utilizing state-of-the-art fitness technology, visit www.FitnessForHealth.org or call
301-231-7138.
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