Exercise Rivals Therapy and Medication for Treating Depression and Anxiety

Exercise rivals therapy and medication for treating depression and anxiety

A new, comprehensive analysis confirms that physical activity is a highly effective treatment for depression and anxiety, offering benefits comparable to therapy or medication. The research suggests that specific types of exercise, such as group activities for depression or short-term programs for anxiety, can be tailored to maximize mental health benefits for different people. These findings were recently published in the British Journal of Spo…

Exercise can be as effective as medication for depression and anxiety, new study shows

Exercise is a evidence-based treatment option for depression and anxiety, but telling patients to 'exercise more' is unlikely to be effective. A new study shows structured, supervised exercise with a social component is best for improving these mental health conditions.

The Growing Evidence That Exercise Can Treat Depression and Anxiety

At a glance Exercise is a powerful mental health treatment: Large-scale analysis found physical activity reduces depression and anxiety, with benefits comparable to medication and psychotherapy. Certain types and formats work best: Aerobic exercise, group or supervised programmes, and low-to-moderate intensity activity showed the strongest effects, especially for young adults and postnatal women. Accessible but underused: Researchers urge exerc…