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New research suggests that exercise can: treat depression It is just as effective as therapy or antidepressants.
The Cochrane review looked at 73 randomized controlled trials involving around 5,000 adults diagnosed with depression. the study Comparative exercises Either therapy or other active treatments such as medication, or “inactive interventions” such as being placed on a waiting list or control group.
A London-based research team found that exercise may be “moderately effective” in reducing symptoms of depression compared to no treatment, according to a press release.
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“There is probably little difference in depressive symptoms between people who exercise and people who receive exercise. psychotherapy“There may be little difference in depressive symptoms between people who exercise and people who take antidepressants,” the authors noted in a research discussion on the Cochrane website.
This review found that light to moderate-intensity exercise was more beneficial in relieving symptoms of depression than vigorous exercise.
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Although no single type of physical activity was found to be best, a mixed program that included resistance training seemed to be “more effective” than just aerobic exercise.
Some forms of exercise, such as yoga and stretching, were not included in the analysis, but are areas that should be analyzed. further researchedthe review noted.
The review’s lead author, Professor Andrew Clegg, said in a statement that exercise “appears to be a safe and accessible option to help manage health.” symptoms of depression. ”
“This suggests that exercise may be effective for some people, but not everyone, and it is important to find an approach that individuals are willing and able to stick to,” he said.
The researchers noted that some studies included in the review were at high risk of bias, and that the long-term effects of exercise on symptoms of depression remain uncertain.
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Mr Clegg said “larger, high-quality studies” were needed to determine which types of exercise were most effective and whether the effects were long-lasting.
Comparisons of exercise with other treatments and how they benefit people’s quality of life were also “inconsistent and uncertain”.
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“Exercise-related adverse events were not common,” the researchers said. “The few participants who experienced them usually reported muscle or joint problems or worsening depression.”
“Future research should focus on improving the quality of research, elucidating the characteristics of exercise that are effective for different populations, and ensuring that different types of people participate in research. health equity issues It is conceivable,” they continued.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 21 million U.S. adults have experienced at least one major depressive episode in recent years, or about 8.3% of all U.S. adults.
Symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, guilt, irritability, and loss of interest or enjoyment in hobbies or activities. Feeling of fatigue, decreased concentration, sleep disordersin addition to thoughts of death and suicidal ideation, changes in appetite and social withdrawal are also red flags.
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This condition is most often treated by: antidepressants There are also psychotherapies such as talk therapy. If you need help, please consult your doctor.
