One hour Of exercise per week prevents depression, Research

Unpublished
Category: Science
London - Completing just one hour of exercise per week at any intensity could be enough to prevent depression for some patients, new research suggests. A study led by the Black Dog Institute found that 12% of cases of depression could have been prevented if participants undertook just one hour of physical activity each week. The landmark study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, worked with more than 33,000 Norwegian adults to analyse their levels of exercise and symptoms of depression and anxiety over 11 years. The researchers concluded that even small amounts of exercise can protect against depression, with mental health benefits seen regardless of age or gender. Commenting on the findings, lead author associate professor Samuel Harvey from Black Dog Institute and UNSW said:  “We’ve known for some time that exercise has a role to play in treating symptoms of depression, but this is the first time we have been able to quantify the preventative potential of physical activity in terms of reducing future levels of depression.” He added that the “findings are exciting” because they show that even relatively small amounts of exercise - from one hour per week - can “deliver significant protection against depression”. (FA)

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