MOVE Over Depression

Authors

Allyson Savery, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Psychiatry

Advisor

Thomas Colletti, DMSc

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the effectiveness of exercise as a treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

Method: A PubMed literature search was conducted with terms depression and exercise. A second PubMed literature search was conducted with terms depression and exercise and SSRI and included clinical trials and randomized controlled trials within the last 5 years to produce the most up to date data. Twenty-three articles were retrieved and initially considered. Eligibility of articles was determined by reviewing titles and abstracts and the year published. Seven articles were retrieved and served as the basis for this clinical review. All included studies were published in English and published within the last 5 years to produce the most up to date information. Excluded for review were other literature reviews.

Results: All seven studies examined in the Literature review showed that physical exercise improves depressive symptoms. Exercise has been shown to alleviate some depressive symptoms. Exercise as an effective treatment for depression shows promise, but there is still a lack of evidence-based research and studies to demonstrate how and why it is an effective treatment for depression.

Conclusion: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a pervasive, complex medical condition that affects people of all ages, sexes, races, nationalities and destroys families. It is a worldwide pandemic. The treatments are traditionally psychopharmaceutical interventions, but many patients continue to suffer. Exercise has a large and significant antidepressant effect in people with depression. Physical activity has been shown to be associated with decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Studies support the use of exercise as a treatment for depression. Exercise compares favorably to antidepressant medications as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression.

Recommended Citation

Savery A. MOVE Over Depression. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2023; 5(1).