Duke Study:  Exercise may be just as Effective as Medication for Treating Major Depression

DURHAM, N.C. - A brisk 30-minute walk or jog around the track three times a week may be just as effective in relieving the symptoms of major depression as the standard treatment of anti-depressant medications, according to the results of a Duke University Medical Center study.

Source: DepressionNet.com.au

Effects of Exercise Training on Older Patients With Major Depression

Previous observational and interventional studies have suggested that regular physical exercise may be associated with reduced symptoms of depression. However, the extent to which exercise training may reduce depressive symptoms in older patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) has not been systematically evaluated.

Headline Watch: Depression and exercise

Exercise may be an effective way to battle depression, a new study suggests.
James Blumenthal, Ph.D., a psychologist at Duke University in Durham, N.C., and colleagues randomly assigned 156 people over age 50 who had a major depressive disorder to one of three treatments: group exercise three times a week for 45 minutes; medication with sertraline (Zoloft); or both.

Source: MayoClinic.com

Exercise and Mental Health

Exercise is good for the body. And it may also be good for the mind.
Canadian researchers report that there's "considerable evidence" regular exercise can make a difference in managing mild to moderate depression, anxiety and possibly other psychiatric disorders.

Source: MayoClinic.com