It’s already known to help relieve depression, but regular exercise can also help prevent it. People who get just half the recommended weekly amount of exercise reduce their risk of depression by 18%, according to research published in the journal. JAMA Psychiatry. However, those who were more active, reaching at least the minimum recommended level of physical activity, reduced their risk of depression by 25 percent, compared to inactive people.
The findings come from analysis of data from 15 studies, involving 191,130 adults who were followed for at least three years. Those who met the activity guidelines got at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, as recommended in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
Mental health experts note that nearly 10 percent of American adults struggle with some form of depression each year. Antidepressant medications and psychotherapy are commonly prescribed treatments, but exercise is also considered a effective treatment. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins in the brain, sometimes called feel-good hormones. It can also calm the mind, quelling the cycle of negative thoughts that often accompany depression, and can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost self-esteem. Urging doctors to encourage their patients to increase their physical activity, the researchers wrote that the study findings suggest “significant mental health benefits of being physically active, even at levels below public health recommendations.” If the least active study participants had exercised more, they say, 11.5 percent of depression cases could have been prevented.
This article is part of The Post’s “Big Number” series, which takes a brief look at the statistical side of health problems. Additional information and relevant research is available through the hyperlinks.
