New clues point towards how exercise reduces symptoms of depression

The brain and body processes through which exercise reduces symptoms of depression have been studied by researchers at UCL.

Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is associated with multiple dysfunctions of the brain and nervous system. Psychological processesVarious disorders such as learning disabilities and memory disorders have been reported. DepressionHowever, until now, the processes behind it have not been well understood.

In a new review article Published in Translational PsychiatryResearchers have proposed a new hypothesis to understand the antidepressant effects of exercise: They believe that the process of exercise relies on motivation, which is crucial for alleviating many of the symptoms of depression. depressionAnhedonia (lack of interest or pleasure in life’s experiences), low energy, “brain fog,” etc.

The team summarized Research Papers Investigating the mechanisms of depression in both humans and animals, depression, especially anhedonia, inflammation (Triggered by the body’s immune response.) Importantly, inflammation is also associated with inhibition of dopamine transmission. Biological changes It may represent an important process that leads to changes in motivation, especially a reduced willingness to exert physical or mental effort.

On the other hand, exercise reduces inflammation, boosts dopamine function, and increases motivation, which researchers believe may be an important reason why exercise exerts an antidepressant effect.

Lead author Dr Emily Hurd (UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience) said: Antidepressant effects of Aerobic Although it has been convincingly demonstrated in randomized controlled trials, its mechanisms are not well understood, in part because they likely involve a variety of biological and psychological processes.

“For example, exercise not only has a positive effect on inflammation, dopamine, and reward processing; Oxidative stress Self-esteem and self-efficacy improve.

“However, we argue that exercise, particularly sweaty, breathless aerobic exercise, reduces inflammation and enhances dopamine transmission, thereby increasing the desire to exert effort and therefore generally increasing motivation.”

The research team hopes that understanding how exercise reduces the symptoms of depression may help develop new treatment strategies, such as individualized exercise programs.

“Understanding the mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of physical activity in depression may also aid in understanding the mechanisms that cause depression and in the development of new intervention strategies, particularly individualized interventions and social prescribing,” Dr Hurd said.

To further test their hypothesis, the researchers recommend that large randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the antidepressant effects of exercise, as well as measure its effects on variables such as inflammation, dopamine transmission, and motivation.

It is also important to explore potential barriers to exercise.

Dr Hurd added: “Addressing barriers to exercise is important, especially for people with depression, as regular physical activity can ease symptoms, boost mood and empower them on the road to recovery. As part of this, it is important to find strategies to encourage movement.”