Exercise: A powerful approach for managing depression, new study finds

Most of us know that physical activities help people cope with stress and depression, but not everyone actually believes that.

Well, the newest research claims that it's true - and physical activities can sometimes help even more than meds.

Let's find out more.

Exercise actually helps

New study from the University of South Australia highlights the significant role of exercise in coping with depression.

The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, reveals that physical activity tend to be 1.5 times more effective than counseling or even meds in improving symptoms.

The study examined almost 100 reviews, 1040 trials, and 128,120 participants.

It shows that sports and exercising lasting about 12 weeks are particularly effective in improving mental health symptoms.

The study identifies the largest benefits among individuals with anxiety and depression, pregnant/postpartum syndrome, healthy people, and those with HIV or kidney disease.

Physical activity is actually important

The findings emphasize the urgency of prioritizing physical activity in the management of mental health conditions, given its wide-ranging benefits across clinical populations.

This research supports the use of various exercise types, including activities like walking, resistance training, Pilates, and also yoga.

The study urges healthcare professionals to consider exercise interventions as a primary approach to coping with depression and anxiety.
 

• Related news:
• exercising
• mental health
• research
• depression
• 28 June 2023

---