Effects of Exercise on the Prevention and Treatment of Depression

Abstract

Abstract Neither psychotherapy nor psychotropic mediation have been shown to reduce the risk of becoming depressed. Because of the many personal and social costs of depression, interventions that successfully prevent and treat depressive disorders must be part and parcel of a psychotherapist's treatment regime. In this article the researched effects of physical exercise on reducing depression are detailed for the reader. The authors make an oft-neglected suggestion that mental health professionals training should include knowledge regarding the rewards and determinants of physical activity, especially in relation to treating depression.