The Effects of Exercise on Depression

Abstract

Background: As the number of people diagnosed with clinical depression grows, so do the number of treatments. Along with pharmacological means, holistic and natrual approaches to treating depression are also explored. Aerobic exercise is among these treatment plans. Therefore, this review provides a concise explanation on how exercise may be utilized in the management of depressions. Methods: Studies were identified using CINAHL, PsychInfo, and MedLine using relevant search terms such as exercise and depression. Further narrowing of results was achieved by using only articles dated in the past 10 years. Purpose of Article: The aim of this article is to collect meta-analyses as well as conducting systematic literature and peer reviewed articles to describe (1) the advantages of using exercise alone or in conjunction with other treatment methods (2) explain some hypotheses about how exercise may decrease depression symptoms. Some of these advantages include cost effectiveness, patient's choice of exercise and positive impact on those diagnosed with depression both short term and long term. However, some peer-reviewed articles raise apprehensions due to lack of studies, continued use of psychiatric drugs, injury, and lack of motivation. Discussion: Based on the available evidence it is appropriate to recommend exercise as an adjunct therapy along with their current treatment regimen.