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Exercise found to be a natural remedy for depression

Running away from your depression may not be a bad idea. A recent study shows that exercise may be as effective as medication for treating depression. “People who are ready to make a commitment and can mobilize themselves to actually start exercising can really expect the same kind of beneficial result that they might get with other kinds of treatment,” according to researcher Dr. Steve Herman of Duke University.

Durham and his colleagues assigned 156 patients over the age of 50 who suffered from a major depressive disorder to one of three treatments: 45 minutes of group exercise three times a week; anti-depressant medication; or both. After four months, all patients had experienced a significant decline in symptoms of depression—with very little difference among the three groups. At the study's conclusion, between 60% and 70% of the patients in all groups no longer met the criteria for major depressive disorder.

Six months later, follow-up research found that fewer than 10% of the patients in the exercise-only group had relapsed, compared with almost 40% of the medication-only patients and just over 30% of the group both exercising and taking medication. Researchers concluded that exercise is a viable alternative to medication for treating depression. 

If you have symptoms of depression that are persistent and prolonged, it is important to seek help. Whether through therapy, medication, lifestyle changes (such as getting more exercise) or a combination of options, depression is one of the most treatable of all illnesses. A professional assessment is the first step to recovery.

Call your EAP at (414) 257-2124 or 1-800-236-3231.