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September 15, 2009
Regular physical activity may lessen symptoms of depression, psychiatrist explains.
The Chicago Tribune (9/13, Stein) reported that "regular, moderate physical activity may lessen depression symptoms as much as some medications."
According to Andrew Leuchter, MD, professor of psychiatry at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at the University of California-Los Angeles, "exercise does appear to have significant effects in terms of elevating mood." Dr. Leuchter explained that "physical activity...often is used to augment treatments, such as medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. 'If people are on medication or in treatment and haven't had a complete recovery from depression, exercise is useful in getting them all the way there,'" he said.
Related Links:
- Exercise a strong weapon in fight against depression," Jeannine Stein, Chicago Tribune, September 13, 2009.
Posted by admin at September 15, 2009 04:36 PM