Effective remedy against depression and anxiety

Anxiety-depressive disorders affect not only the mental state, but also the optimal functioning of the body. Although antidepressant medications remain an important treatment option, individual reactions and side effects vary considerably. In this context, regular physical activity is becoming an increasingly popular alternative.

New research demonstrates the comparable effectiveness of running and antidepressants in cases of mild and moderate depression. Furthermore, exercise is useful even in severe forms of the disease, as a complementary therapy. Although studies on anxiety are fewer, the initial results are encouraging.

Direct comparison between running and drugs

Dutch researchers offered participants the choice between treatment with antidepressants of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class and a therapy based on outdoor running. The latter involved 45 minute sessions, 2-3 times a week, for 16 weeks, under specialized supervision.

The results proved it both approaches had similar effects on mental health. However, significant differences appeared in terms of physical parameters. The running group recorded notable improvements in indicators such as:

• Body weight
• Waist circumference
• Heart rate
• Heart rate variability
• Blood pressure

Also, C-reactive protein and triglyceride levels they evolved differently in the two groups, in favor of the running therapy participants.

Challenges and benefits of “running therapy”

While the results are promising, the study also highlighted an important challenge: treatment adherence. The rate of compliance with antidepressant medications was significantly higher (82%) than participation in running sessions. This aspect highlights the need for strategies to motivate and support patients in order to fully benefit from the benefits of physical exercises.

However, the multiple benefits of running cannot be ignored. In addition to improving depressive and anxiety symptoms, this form of therapy brings significant improvements to your overall physical condition. As, running affects mental and physical health simultaneouslyoffering a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Mechanisms of action of physical exercises

The positive effects of running on the mental state are due to several mechanisms:

1. The release of endorphins – the hormones of «happiness».
2. Reduce the level of cortisol, the stress hormone
3. Improve the quality of sleep
4. Increase self-esteem and confidence in your strengths
5. Provide a sense of accomplishment and control

Plus, running in a group adds the benefits of socialization and mutual support, which are important factors in recovering from depression and anxiety.

Implementation of «running therapy» in clinical practice

The results of the Dutch study open new perspectives in the therapeutic approach to anxiety-depressive disorders. Specialists recommend the inclusion of physical exercises, especially running, as an integral part of treatment plans.

Buy from the store:

For the success of the therapy it is necessary:

• Personalized programs, adapted to the patient’s initial physical conditions
• Adequate supervision by specialists
• Strategies to motivate and maintain program adherence
• Carefully monitoring progress and adjusting exercise intensity

This is important to mention “Running therapy” does not completely replace drug treatment or psychotherapy in the most serious cases. It represents a valuable addition, with the potential to reduce required medication doses and speed recovery.

Future perspectives in «running therapy» research.

The Dutch study paves the way for more in-depth research in this field. Future studies could explore:

• The long-term effects of running on mental health
• Comparisons between different forms of exercise (running vs swimming, cycling, etc.)
• The impact of running on other mental disorders
• Optimizing «running therapy» protocols to maximize benefits

These investigations will contribute to the refinement and validation of this innovative therapeutic approach.

Conclusions and recommendations

The study conducted in the Netherlands provides convincing evidence on the effectiveness of running in treating depression and anxiety. This form of therapy offers benefits comparable to antidepressant medications in terms of mental health, with the added benefit of significantly improving physical parameters.

For people suffering from depressive or anxious symptoms, including running into your daily routine can be an important step towards recovery. However, it is essential that any changes to the treatment regimen are discussed and approved by the treating doctor.

Mental health professionals are encouraged to explore the potential of “ongoing therapy” and integrate it into patients’ treatment plans where possible. This holistic approach promises to bring significant benefits to both the mind and body, offering a new perspective in the fight against anxiety-depressive disorders.

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