One question that many experts are asking is, “Can exercise treat depression?”
You probably already know how common depression is, but what you might not know is the shockingly large number of people who suffer from it.
Around the world, 280 million people deal with depression. In the U.S. alone, 21 million people have at least one major depressive episode each year. [1]
This is a mental health crisis that needs to be addressed as untreated depression can have far-reaching consequences.
Unfortunately, an overreliance on potentially harmful medications has become all too common.
As a result, the search for safer, more effective alternatives has led to the exploration of exercise as a promising treatment for depression.
Understanding Depression
Depression is a complex mental health disorder, to say the least.
It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities.
Its impact on daily life is significant, often leading to impaired social and occupational functioning, strained relationships, and a diminished quality of life.
In some cases, untreated depression can result in severe consequences, including an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions or engaging in substance abuse.
Traditional Treatments for Depression
Traditional treatments for depression primarily consist of pharmacological interventions, such as antidepressant medications, and various forms of psychotherapy.
Although these conventional treatments have proven effective for many, they are not without drawbacks.
Medications can lead to side effects or dependency, while access to therapy may be limited by cost, availability, or stigma.
Feeling there must be a better option, many experts and sufferers of depression have turned to a more accessible, safe, and natural form of treatment: physical exercise.