Depression: Sport, as effective as medication and psychotherapy

Physical activity can be as effective as pharmaceutical treatment or psychotherapy for people suffering from depression, the review concludes. Cochrane, renowned for its rigorous analyses. Results that confirm current recommendations.

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Sport, as effective as medicine

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Yes, just as with cancer or other chronic illnesses, physical activity is also effective for mental health, according to this rigorous analysis of 73 studies specifically examining its benefits on depression compared to treatments. Physical exercise can be as effective as pharmacological treatments (e.g., antidepressants) or psychological treatments (e.g., talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy).", lists with Science and Future British geriatrician Andrew Clegg, first author of the publication.

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The benefits of sport increase those of treatments

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“ Physical exercise offers people suffering from depressive symptoms the opportunity to choose the best option for them, in consultation with their doctor."The researcher emphasizes that while it may be difficult for depressed patients to find the motivation to exercise, the benefits of physical activity have the advantage of being able to complement those of other treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy." Our analysis revealed a moderate benefit from adding exercise to another treatment." , confirms Andrew Clegg.

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Practice regularly, and throughout your life

Walking, jogging, yoga, cycling, dancing or weight training, the nature of the physical activity matters little. All types of physical activity are effective, but elements such as enjoyment, regularity, intensity, as well as the quality of support and psycho-social assistance, are crucial. (supervised and structured sessions, editor's note) play a key role in maximizing its efficiency", explained in 2024 Psychiatrist Bruno Roméo. No need to push the intensity. Exercises of light intensity (e.g., walking at a leisurely pace of 3 km/h) to moderate intensity (e.g., brisk walking or gardening) and between 13 and 36 sessions appear to be the most beneficial."That sums it up," says Andrew Clegg. We were unable to determine how often these exercises should be performed.. »

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However, it seems important to continue practicing regularly over the long term, even after remission. After remission, continuing regular physical activity reduces the risk of recurrence during the first year and beyond.", specifies the High Authority for Health (HAS) in its 2022 recommendations on the management of depression.