A recent review highlights running, swimming, and dancing as some of the most effective exercises for alleviating anxiety and depression. Notably, group workouts showed greater benefits for individuals with depression, especially young adults and new mothers.
Conducted by Australian researchers and published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the study analyzed 63 pieces of research to assess the role of exercise in mental health treatment. Currently, the UK standard for treating depression involves antidepressant medications—specifically Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) such as sertraline and fluoxetine—combined with therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
The findings emphasize that aerobic exercises have the most significant positive effect on reducing symptoms of both depression and anxiety. Group-based workouts correlated with more pronounced improvements in depression among people aged 18 to 30 and postnatal women.
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Interestingly, shorter durations and lower intensities of exercise were more effective in easing anxiety symptoms. Nonetheless, researchers stress that various forms and intensities of exercise can be beneficial for mental health.
Considering that one in four people in England experience a mental health issue annually, with one in five reporting anxiety or depression weekly, the study advocates for mental health professionals to confidently prescribe exercise alongside traditional treatments.
Researchers recommend that exercise should be recognized as an accessible, evidence-based first-line intervention for mental health, particularly for young adults and perinatal populations where benefits are most evident. Tailoring exercise programs to individual needs and preferences is essential to maximize outcomes.