Using Exercise to Ward Off Depression

In brief

For treatment of depression many physicians use exercise as an important adjunct to psychotherapy and antidepressant therapy. Low-intensity exercise and exercise that elicits an increase in o₂max are equally effective in lessening depressive symptoms. Evidence has shown that exercise is as effective as psychotherapy and antidepressant therapy in treating mild-to-moderate depression, and even more effective when used in conjunction with the conventional therapies. When recommending exercise to their depressed patients, physicians should be aware of the pharmacology of various antidepressants to avoid unwanted interactions. Staying alert to the risks of overtraining and exercise addiction is also important.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

George Nicoloff

Dr Nicoloff is a third-year family practice resident at St Mary's Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Thomas L. Schwenk

Dr Schwenk is professor and chair in the Department of Family Practice at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine.