2023-10-20 13:32:00
Running as Effective as Anti-Depressants in Relieving Symptoms, According to Netherlands Research
A recent study conducted in the Netherlands has found that “running” can effectively alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The research, conducted by the Free University of Amsterdam, discovered that running was equally as effective as using antidepressants in treating these mental health conditions. The study sought to find alternative ways to alleviate symptoms without relying solely on medication, which can have long-term health effects on patients.
While running has been found to be beneficial for reducing symptoms of depression, it may not be suitable for every patient due to varying levels of depression severity. For patients with severe symptoms, medication is still recommended alongside other treatments.
The groundbreaking research was presented at the European College of NeuroPsychopharmacology (ECNP) annual conference and also published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. This is the first time running has been established as being as effective as antidepressants in the field of psychiatry.
Professor Brenda Pennince, co-author of the study and a professor of psychiatric epidemiology at Vrije University, expressed concerns about the increasing prevalence of depression and anxiety in today’s society. The study aimed to find the best ways to mitigate the long-term effects of using antidepressants.
The experiment involved 141 depressed and anxious patients who were divided into two groups. One group received antidepressants while the other was asked to run for 45 minutes, 2-3 times a week under close supervision. Both groups showed significant improvements in symptoms, leading the research team to conclude that running and medication were equally effective in treating depression and anxiety.
In addition to the mental health benefits, the group that engaged in running also experienced improved physical health, including weight loss, reduced waist size, and better blood pressure and heart health. However, those using antidepressants did not experience these additional benefits.
Carmel Choi, a clinical psychologist from Harvard Medical School, commented on the study, stating that exercise has long been recognized as an effective treatment for mental illness. It is even more widely accepted when combined with psychotherapy or medication. In this case, exercise proved to be just as beneficial as using antidepressants, with fewer side effects and added physical health benefits.
Despite the positive findings, it is essential to note that running may not be suitable for all depressed patients. The severity of depression varies among individuals, and those with severe symptoms should continue to rely on medication as prescribed by a doctor. Other experts also highlight the need for more research on the effects of exercise on severe depression.
It is crucial to treat each patient individually, as different treatment methods may work for different people. While running can be a viable treatment option, it is essential for patients to consult with their healthcare providers and discuss their specific symptoms and treatment preferences.
In conclusion, the research from the Netherlands confirms that running can be as effective as antidepressants in treating depression and anxiety. However, each patient’s treatment approach should be tailored to their specific needs. It is important to have open and honest discussions with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.]
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