Using Exercise to Combat Depression

No matter how you feel about exercise, most people can all agree that we feel much better after a workout, invigorated even. Why is this? And how can exercise be used to combat depression, a common ailment that over 35 million Americans suffer from?

The Four Neurotransmitters

Exercise elevates endorphins, famous for the "runners' high; but, more importantly, it also regulates all of the neurotransmitters targeted by antidepressant medication. The first in line is norepinephrine. The reason why elevating the levels of this neurotransmitter is important is due to the effects it has on self-esteem, one major component of depression. Continuing along through the brain, we find the next nuerotransmitter that helps combat depression, dopamine. This famous hormone is famous for its ability to improve mood, motivation, and attention. In addition to depression, the elevation of dopamine also helps combat ADD, ADHD, and addictions. Lastly, we find Serotonin, this fun little chemical helps with mood, impulse control, and self-esteem. It also counteracts cortisol, which helps us deal with unwanted stress.

The Proof is in the Study!

Without describing the study in detail (click here and you can find the original), researchers at Duke University studied 156 patients and broke the groups up into three parts: Zoloft, exercise, and a combination of the two. All particpants in the groups showed a significant drop in depression and about half of each group had their depression go into remission.

The most intriguing results came after the study during the follow-up. The researchers found that the particpants who decided to continue to exercise showed the lowest remission rates of any group. Specifically, for every 50 minutes of weekly exercise, there was a correlation of a 50% reduction in the odds of being depressed. What? Exercise more powerful than Zoloft? Perhaps.

What to do?

If you do have depression and you are reading this article, I would still recommend you consult your doctor. However, knowing that you may be able to combat your depression without taking medications that may produce unwanted side effects, it should give you hope that there are other treatments out there. This should also thoroughly explain why we feel so much better after we workout!