Training against depression: physical activity is better than medicine, says study

Brazil leads the list of diseases in Latin America. This Yellow September, understand the benefits of working out for depression

Chances are, at some point, you’ve already heard about the benefits of training for depression. A study published in March this year, however, suggests that regular exercise may be even more effective than medications in treating this and other mental health conditions, such as anxiety.

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Made by researchers from University of South Australia (UniSA)research reinforces the importance of daily exercise to prevent disease and ensure physical and mental well-being.

“Brazil leads the ranking of anxiety and depression in Latin America, yet cases of the disease are viewed with suspicion, shame and judgment. Unfortunately, it is common to hear adjectives to disqualify reports of symptoms of depression such as: coldness, weakness, ‘mimimi’ and even lack of faith”, he underlines Gustavo ImianowskyMaster in Social Psychology of the PUC, coordinator and professor of the Neuroscience and Behavior course at the Faculdade UNIGUAÇU.

“This type of attitude is cruel, it increases the feeling of pain and abandonment of people who are already in a vulnerable situation. It is important to have empathy for others. Mental health problems must be taken seriously and treated,” he emphasizes .

Second Pan American Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability in the world and it is estimated that more than 300 million people, of all ages, suffer from this disorder. PAHO/WHO also highlights the importance of genetics in some forms of depression, although individuals without a family history also have the disorder. The severity, frequency and duration vary depending on each person and their psychological conditions.

Benefits of training for depression, according to study

In an effort to make physical activity an essential approach to managing depression, researchers have found that physical activity is 1.5 times more effective than major medications or even counseling for the illness. .

The findings indicated that all types of exercise were beneficial to mental health, including aerobic activity such as walking, weight training, pilates and yoga. When it comes to depression and anxiety, high-intensity exercise had a greater impact, as did activities that lasted longer.

The research also shows that exercise interventions for up to 12 weeks were the most effective in reducing symptoms related to mental health problems, including alleviating anxiety and distress, highlighting the speed at which physical activity can lead to change.

“Physical activity is the best medicine and investment to prevent diseases, it helps maintain physical and mental well-being (relieves symptoms of stress and anxiety). Being in movement increases the response of the immune system, it is an effective way to control cases of high blood pressure, diabetes and depression, also allowing for the reduction of medications”, he underlines Eduardo Nettotechnical director of the Bodytech Company.

“A small change in habits can lead to a big improvement in health and quality of life. This can also boost your professional career,” adds the professional.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.