Christian Peterson
Exercise works just as well as some popular prescription
pills in treating depression, according to researchers
at Duke University Medical Centre in the US.
Not only was exercise just as good as a pill, but
also exercise did a better job at keeping depressive
symptoms returning after the depression lifted.
The 156 volunteers who took part in the research
had major depressive disorders. Their loss of pleasure,
feelings of worthlessness and guilt had to have
existed for more than two weeks to take part in
the research.
The volunteers' exercise routine consisted of a
10 minute warm up, a brisk walk, stationary cycling
or jogging for 30 minutes and a five minute cool
off, three times a week.
After four months 60% of volunteers had vastly improved
or had no symptoms of depression.
This compared well with the people who took medication
only. Interestedly, 69% of a group that took medication
and did exercise had improved vastly or had no symptoms.
After 10 months 133 people of the research group
continued to exercise at least three times each
week. Only 11 people experienced some of their earlier
depressive symptoms.
This research is just one more bit of evidence
that indicates regular exercise not only helps your
physical fitness, but also aids your mental fitness
for an exciting future.
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