A study, the first of its kind, has delved into comparing the effects of antidepressants and running exercises in treating anxiety and depression. It yielded some interesting results.
Running to fight depression - (Image Credit: baranq via Shutterstock / HDR tune by Universal-Sci)
Study Details
Participants in the study were 141 patients who were diagnosed with either depression, anxiety, or both. They were given a choice: take SSRI antidepressants or engage in group-based running therapy, both lasting for 16 weeks.
Perhaps surprisingly to some, a majority (96 participants) chose running over medication (45 participants).
While 82% of the participants in the antidepressant group adhered to their medication intake, only 52% of the running group managed to stick to the exercise regimen. This is noteworthy considering the initial preference for exercise over medication.
By the end of the trial, roughly 44% of participants from both groups experienced improvements in their anxiety and depression levels.
However, those who chose running also displayed better physical health indicators such as weight loss, reduced waist circumference, improved blood pressure, and heart functionality. On the contrary, those on antidepressants witnessed a slight dip in these physical health markers.
Professor Penninx's Take
The study was presented by Professor Brenda Penninx from Vrije University, Amsterdam, at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology's (ECNP) conference in Barcelona.
Penninx stated that the team intended to observe how either therapy affects overall health, not just mental well-being. She further noted that despite the evident benefits of exercise, it might be challenging for some to maintain the regimen. Encouragement and adequate supervision, as was provided during the study, seem essential for successful adherence.
She also stressed that while antidepressants are safe and often effective, they might not be the best fit for everyone. The study suggests that we need to consider exercise therapy more seriously as a potential treatment method.
It's also essential to recognize the possible side effects of antidepressant treatments. Especially in patients with heart issues, it's crucial to consider the physical health implications of these medications.
Expert Commentary
Dr. Eric Ruhe from Amsterdam University Medical Centres highlighted the importance of the findings and added a word of caution. He said that while the study's results are intriguing, the fact that patients chose their preferred treatment might introduce some bias in the comparison.
It's essential to note that the participants in the antidepressant group were, on average, more depressed, potentially affecting their likelihood of adhering to exercise.
Ruhe also stressed the difference in adherence rates, suggesting it's often harder for individuals to change lifestyle habits compared to just taking a pill. This insight has broader implications for healthcare, emphasizing the importance of finding effective ways to encourage and sustain healthy behaviours.
In summary, while both running and antidepressants offer benefits for mental health, it is essential to consider the broader picture. Taking into account the physical benefits, personal preferences, and potential side effects will ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective care.
For those interested in more details, the study was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. We have listed it below this article.
Sources and further reading on the subject of depression:
Playing video games lowers risk of depression later in life for boys (Universal-Sci)
Air pollution can impact brain circuitry and raise the risk of depression for some healthy people (Universal-Sci)
Why stress is more likely to cause depression in men than in women (Universal-Sci)
People with depression use language differently – here’s how to spot it (Universal-Sci)
Antidepressants or running therapy: Comparing effects on mental and physical health in patients with depression and anxiety disorders (Journal of Affective Disorders)
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