Exercise not only treats, but prevents depression

Physical activity is being increasingly recognized as an effective tool to treat depression. A review in the October issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has taken the connection one step further, finding that moderate exercise can actually prevent episodes of depression in the long term.

This is the first review to focus exclusively on the role that exercise plays in maintaining good mental health and preventing the onset of depression later in life.

Researchers analyzed over 26 years' worth of research findings to discover that even low levels of physical activity (walking and gardening for 20-30 minutes a day) can ward off depression in people of all age groups.

The findings come at a time when mental health experts want to expand their approach beyond treating depression with costly prescription medication. The scope of research demonstrates that regardless of individual predispositions, there's a clear take-away for everyone. The researchers state, "it's definitely worth taking note that if you're currently active, you should sustain it. If you're not physically active, you should initiate the habit. This review shows promising evidence that the impact of being active goes far beyond the physical."