Movement against depression: study shows surprising healing powers!

Movement against depression: study shows surprising healing powers!

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses worldwide, and despite the variety of treatments available, conventional methods do not always achieve the desired results. They can also cause unwanted side effects. Against this background, the need for alternative treatment methods should not be underestimated. A promising option that has recently received increased attention is physical activity. A recent study by Prof. Dr. Anett Müller-Alcazar, Prof. Dr. Henning Budde and MSH students consistently show positive effects of exercise in adults with depression. This study provides comprehensive insights into the current state of research and was published in the journal PLOS One.

The results of the study show that physical activity has significant positive effects on depression. Neurological changes are thought to play a role in this antidepressant effect, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. The study highlights that exercise is effective both as a stand-alone form of therapy and in combination with other treatment approaches.

Effectiveness of movement

According to further research in the field of sports medicine, the positive effects of physical activity are not limited to unipolar depression. A broad review includes 55 meta-analyses showing that aerobic endurance and strength training as well as mindfulness-focused interventions such as yoga can produce significant moderate effects on depressive symptoms. The combination of exercise and psychotherapy often shows similar effectiveness to conventional antidepressants.

Sports interventions perform remarkably well, particularly in adults and older patients. Interestingly, additional benefits have also been documented, such as improvements in sleep quality, quality of life and cardiorespiratory fitness of those affected. While the positive effect of physical exercise on depressive symptoms has been well researched, research into the influence on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or cortisol reactivity is still an open question.

Prevention steps

In the treatment of depression, not only immediate training is recommended, but also preventive measures. Studies show that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of later developing depression by 17 to 21 percent. Gradually increasing activity levels, as recommended by the World Health Organization, is advisable, especially for patients with low levels of physical activity. A promising approach includes diverse forms of exercise that can be carried out in both group and individual sessions.

However, the evidence on the effectiveness of physical activity in depressive disorders remains heterogeneous, so further studies are necessary to clarify optimal doses, duration and sustainable promotion of physical activity.

Additionally offers one SpringerMedizin.de Accessible CME course gives doctors the opportunity to receive training in the treatment and prevention of depressive illnesses through physical activity. This course is certified by the Bavarian State Medical Association and offers valuable information on current research and evidence.

The integration of physical activity as a central component of therapy for depression is increasingly required. This evidence shows that exercise is not only an effective but also a necessary addition to traditional therapeutic approaches. The path to an improved quality of life and emotional stability could often be easier than expected.