Exercise May Help in Treating Depression

Though there's no definitive research showing exercise by itself can cure depression, many mental health experts agree that it has positive mental benefits and can be a useful tool in overall therapy.

Depression is a serious illness thought to be related to chemical imbalances in the brain, much more severe than an occasional case of "the blues." Depression affects the whole body: energy level, appetite and concentration.

"What we're really finding is that people that are depressed are quite inactive, both in kind of expending energy and in getting things done, working toward goals, taking care of personal business," said Matt Kushner, a clinical psychologist and associate professor of psychology at the University of Minnesota.

He recommends exercise for his patients as part of therapy that emphasizes routines, habits and goals. In addition, he said, patients who start exercising find they feel better and are less inclined to overeat or abuse drugs and alcohol.

Courtesy of AP 3/22/2005