The study, the first of its kind, directly compared the effects of a running program and a course of antidepressants on 141 individuals with depression and/or anxiety.
Netherlands researchers have shed new light on the debate surrounding exercise and antidepressants for mental health treatment
Surprisingly, both groups experienced similar levels of mental health improvement over a 16-week period. While those who exercised enjoyed additional physical health benefits such as weight loss and improved heart function, those on antidepressants were notably more likely to adhere to the treatment regimen.
Approximately 44% of participants in both groups achieved significant symptom remission by the study’s end. Notably, those engaging in exercise also exhibited positive changes in weight and cardiovascular health, whereas those on antidepressants saw slight weight gain and elevated blood pressure. Curiously, adherence to the running program was lower at 52% compared to an impressive 82% among the antidepressant group, despite a preference for exercise among most participants. These exercise and antidepressants findings were published in the Journal of Affective Disorders and are currently under discussion at the annual meeting of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP).
Lead researcher Brenda Penninx emphasized that both exercise and antidepressants offer viable avenues for treating depression and anxiety, each with its unique considerations and challenges
Penninx stressed the overall effectiveness and safety of antidepressants, underscoring their importance for patients who may not respond well or be averse to taking them. However, the study about exercise and antidepressants also highlighted the need for additional support to help individuals maintain an exercise routine, indicating that merely recommending exercise may not suffice. Past exercise and antidepressants studies have corroborated the mood-boosting benefits of exercise, particularly outdoors, and its positive impact on overall brain health. While exercise holds significant health advantages, its role as a standalone depression treatment remains a subject of ongoing exploration.
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