By Nancy J. Tarbell, MD FASTRO – Director of Health and Wellness
Regular physical activity has long been recognized for its multitude of benefits, and recent research further underscores its role as a potential treatment option for depression. A study published in The BMJ revealed compelling evidence linking various forms of exercise to decreased symptoms of depression, both when practiced independently and in conjunction with therapy and medication.
The study identified several exercises that were effective in reducing depressive symptoms. These included walking, jogging, yoga, strength training, mixed aerobic exercises, tai chi, and qigong. Interestingly, the study found that the intensity of the activity correlated with its effectiveness, suggesting that more vigorous forms of exercise may offer greater benefits in managing depression.
Walking or jogging, yoga and strength training emerged as particularly effective exercises for alleviating depression. However, the study noted that the differences in effectiveness among various exercise regimens were marginal, indicating that individuals may benefit from choosing the type of exercise that best suits their preferences and physical capabilities.
Director of Health and Wellness at Naples’ only exercise Medicine clinic Dr. Nancy Tarbell explains, “We emphasize strength training in our program at Inspire Exercise Medicine. Our classes are small, tailored, group classes with the added benefit of social connections. Our body of work focuses on the association between functional movement, disease prevention and mental health.”
Inspire Exercise Medicine was founded on the simple fact that exercise is a medical treatment. Its healthcare providers and performance coaches use evidence-based methods including the exercise prescription as part of their treatment plans. The prescriptions are individualized to each patient’s needs to elicit healing processes within the muscles for the management and prevention of chronic conditions, including cancer.
Yoga also demonstrated significant promise as a means of reducing depression. Its emphasis on mindfulness and the mind-body connection may contribute to its effectiveness in improving mental health outcomes. Additionally, both yoga and strength training were well-tolerated, making them accessible options for individuals seeking to incorporate exercise into their treatment regimen without experiencing discomfort or pain.
While the study provides valuable insights into the role of exercise in managing depression, further research is warranted to validate the effectiveness of different exercise modalities. Dr. Mimi Winsberg, a psychiatrist and co-founder of Brightside Health, underscores the importance of evidence-based interventions in addressing depression. With depression affecting millions of adults in the United States annually, exploring alternative treatment approaches such as exercise is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Depression is a complex mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. It can manifest in various symptoms, including fatigue, changes in appetite, and thoughts of suicide. Given its pervasive impact, healthcare providers need to explore holistic approaches to treatment, including lifestyle interventions like exercise.
For individuals looking to incorporate exercise into their routine, the key is choosing activities they enjoy and find sustainable. Dr. Tarbell encourages patients to embrace variety in their exercise regimen, as different activities may offer distinct benefits. By experimenting with different forms of exercise, individuals can discover what works best for them and tailor their approach to meet their unique needs.
As medical professionals, it’s our responsibility to empower patients to take an active role in managing their mental health. By emphasizing the potential benefits of exercise and providing personalized recommendations, we can support individuals in their journey toward improved well-being.
Dr. Paige Gurizzian, an internal medicine resident at the Cleveland Clinic and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit, contributed to the writing of this article and provided valuable medical insights.
239.429.0800 | www.Inspireem.com
3555 Kraft Road, Suite 130, Naples, FL 34105
Sources:
https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj.q320
https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Wellness/3-exercises-found-best-
treating-depression/story?id=107273982