Depression and Anxiety
Exercise and Mental Health: How Physical Activity Reduces Depression and Anxiety
Research Finds That Regular Workouts Are Key to Breaking the Cycle of Mood Disorders
- Hidabroot
- פורסם י' סיון התשע"ז
(Photo: shutterstock) #VALUE!
It's no surprise that exercise is important for physical health. However, the connection between physical activity and mental health is far less known.
A study conducted in the Netherlands sought to quantify the exact effect of physical activity levels on a person’s tendency toward depression or anxiety. The study examined three parameters: sport (i.e., intentional physical activity like running or Pilates), general physical activity (everyday movement such as walking to work or taking the stairs), and the amount of time participants spent sitting.
The study included 2,981 adults aged 18 to 65 who were experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. A control group with no anxiety or depressive disorders was also analyzed. The researchers ensured that participants did not suffer from psychosis, severe addictions, or other unrelated issues. Participants were evaluated after two years, four years, and finally after six years.
The study found that people with depression and anxiety engaged less in intentional exercise and also moved less throughout their daily routines. When comparing the three factors studied, researchers found that reduced general movement and prolonged sitting were less significant in predicting the severity or frequency of depression and anxiety symptoms. What stood out was the lack of structured physical activity, such as going to the gym or participating in a fitness class.
"Over time, it appears that a two-way relationship forms between mental health issues and lower physical activity levels, particularly reduced participation in sport," the researchers wrote. The less people exercise, the more symptoms of depression and anxiety they tend to develop, and the more anxious or depressed a person is, the less likely they are to exercise. The key takeaway, according to the study, is that many patients need to break this vicious cycle.
Are you feeling the first signs of anxiety or low mood? Lace up your sneakers and head to the gym!
