{"id":10535,"date":"2023-05-08T06:00:12","date_gmt":"2023-05-08T05:00:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.bmj.com\/bjsm\/?p=10535"},"modified":"2023-06-14T13:34:42","modified_gmt":"2023-06-14T12:34:42","slug":"exercise-proves-to-be-an-evidence-based-treatment-option-for-depression","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.bmj.com\/bjsm\/2023\/05\/08\/exercise-proves-to-be-an-evidence-based-treatment-option-for-depression\/","title":{"rendered":"Exercise proves to be an evidence based treatment option for depression"},"content":{"rendered":"
In this blog, we explain the results of our review recently published in BJSM. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies examining the effect of exercise interventions (including aerobic training like running and cycling and strength training) on adults with elevated levels of depression to synthesise existing evidence.<\/span><\/h6>\n

Why is this study important?<\/h4>\n

Depression is a prevalent and disabling disorder associated with reduced quality of life, medical comorbidity and mortality, and is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Increasing rates are highlighting the need for appropriate, accessible and cost-effective treatment options. It is important to know that about two thirds of adults with depression do not receive adequate treatment and that untreated depression often leads to intensification of the illness including the development of comorbidities resulting in even higher costs for society. This attests to the need for rapid and readily available alternative treatment options. Up to now, reviews have reported evidence for exercise but mixed results prevent us from recommending exercise as a full treatment alternative. This study is important since it is the largest and most current synthesis on the topic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How did the study go about this?<\/h4>\n

We searched seven databases for studies that investigated exercise (defined as<\/span> planned, structured, repetitive and purposive physical activity with the purpose to improve or maintain physical fitness)\u00a0<\/span>in treating depression in adults. There were 41 studies included in final analysis. We determined the effects reported in each study. Studies with more participants carried a greater weight. We also examined factors which could impact the effects reported and determined how much these factors affected the results.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What did the study find?<\/h4>\n

We found a large effect of exercise interventions in reducing depressive symptoms. Subgroup analyses revealed factors with the largest and most robust effects for exercise interventions:<\/span><\/p>\n