2023-09-19 17:46:19
New Study Shows Healthy Social and Lifestyle Habits Can Boost Mental Health
A new study published in the journal Mental Health has revealed that adopting healthy social and lifestyle habits can significantly reduce the risk of depression. The researchers behind the study used genetics to confirm the existence of a causal relationship between lifestyle choices and mental health.
The study, which included data from nearly 300,000 people from the UK Biobank database, identified seven key healthy habits. People who maintained five or more of these habits reduced their risk of depression by an impressive 57%. The findings were surprising, as they indicated that even individuals with genetic variants predisposing them to depression can lower their risk through a healthy lifestyle.
At the top of the list of habits is sleep, with seven to nine hours of sleep per night shown to reduce the risk of depression by approximately 22%. Adequate sleep plays a vital role in maintaining a strong immune system. Exercise was also highlighted as a crucial factor in boosting mental health, with numerous studies linking physical activity to improved mood. Regular exercise has been found to have longer-lasting effects than antidepressant medications.
The study emphasizes the importance of good nutrition, showing that individuals who follow a healthy eating pattern are less likely to suffer from depressive episodes. The Mediterranean diet, which consists of vegetables, berries, whole grains, lean proteins including beans, and healthy fats such as nuts, is recommended by the researchers.
Furthermore, the study found that reducing alcohol and smoking can contribute to better mental health. Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer as well as depression. The research also suggests that excessive sedentary behavior, such as prolonged television watching or excessive smartphone use, can harm both physical and mental well-being.
The study also emphasizes the importance of social connections and friendships in maintaining good mental health. It highlights hobbies as a means of bolstering mental well-being, as activities involving imagination, novelty, creativity, relaxation, and stimulation can all contribute positively to mental health.
Barbara Sahakian, the study’s lead author and a clinical psychologist and neuroscientist at the University of Cambridge, expressed her surprise at the significant percentage reduction in depression risk associated with a healthy lifestyle. The study’s findings serve as a reminder that adopting healthy social and lifestyle habits can play a crucial role in boosting overall mental health and well-being.]
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