Exercise cuts depression risk

Posted on 02. Nov, 2010 by Julia Barnard in exercise, Wellbeing Research

There is a lot of support for the link between exercise and reduced levels of depression. Some studies have suggested it can even prevent the onset of depression. UK and Norwegian researchers have recently published a study in the British Journal of Psychiatry which supports the link between exercise and reduced depression. However, they discovered that it was being active during leisure time, rather than work that made the difference. Having an active job did little to cut a person’s risk of depression or anxiety. Whereas, people active in their leisure time were half as likely to have symptoms of depression compared to those who were inactive. The researchers believe it is the social aspect of exercise that helps reduce risk.

In some ways it is not surprising that active work doesn’t bring mental health benefits. Work generally is a stressor, no matter what type it is. Whereas exercise after work offers time out from the day, and allows you to do something for yourself. It is something you have full control over, which you may not have at work. Feelings of zero control can themselves lead to depression.

Read more:

The benefits of exercise

Depression

The importance of friendship 

Tags: anxiety, control, depression, exercise, friendship, health, leisure, mental health, people, stress, support, work