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health7h ago
Why ‘exercise may result in a reduction in depressive symptoms,’ according to latest science
- A 2026 Cochrane Library review analyzed 73 randomized trials and nearly 5,000 depressed patients to compare exercise with standard treatments.
- Findings suggest exercise could moderately reduce depressive symptoms and be as effective as some therapies or medications.
- Long-term benefits remain less certain due to few trials with extended follow-up.
- Exercise boosts mood by releasing feel-good hormones and improving neurotransmitter function.
- Starting with enjoyable activities and building gradually can help people begin an exercise regimen.
- The review calls for more rigorous trials to determine which exercise types help which people.
- Exercise may complement other treatments like medication and therapy for depression.
- The science explains how physical activity boosts mood, including neurotransmitter improvements and hormone release.
- Outdoor exercise may provide added benefits like creativity and vitamin D exposure.
- Clinicians may tailor programs to individual needs rather than prescribe a one-size-fits-all plan.
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