Running could ease depression as much as medication, study finds: ‘Extend the treatment arsenal’

In a recent study conducted by Vrije University in Amsterdam, researchers explored the potential benefits of exercise, specifically running, in comparison to antidepressant medication for individuals dealing with depression and anxiety. The study involved 141 patients facing these mental health challenges, giving them the option to either opt for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants or participate in group-based running therapy over a 16-week period.

Interestingly, the majority of participants, numbering 96, chose the running therapy route, while 45 opted for antidepressant medication. The results of the study, presented at the ECNP Congress in Barcelona and published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, indicated that both running and medication offered similar advantages for mental health. Whether it's the natural endorphin release during exercise or the impact of SSRIs on neurotransmitters, the outcomes were comparable.

This research suggests that individuals struggling with depression and anxiety may find exercise-induced euphoria, often referred to as the "runner's high," to be as effective as traditional antidepressant medications. It highlights the potential of incorporating physical activity, in this case, running, as a viable and appealing alternative for improving mental well-being.

In the comparison between running and antidepressants for both mental and physical health, the study led by Brenda Penninx, a professor from Vrije University, Amsterdam, revealed some intriguing findings. While running showcased positive physical health improvements, antidepressants seemed to have a slightly negative impact in this regard.

Penninx pointed out the study's broader focus on general health, not limited to mental well-being. Presenting the work at the ECNP conference in Barcelona, she emphasized the real-life choice given to participants dealing with anxiety and depression: medication or exercise.

Surprisingly, the majority opted for the exercise route, resulting in a larger number of participants in the running group compared to the medication group. However, a notable challenge emerged with running—its considerably higher dropout rate.

The antidepressant group in the study was prescribed Escitalopram, known by the brand name Lexapro, commonly used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. On the other hand, the running group engaged in two to three closely supervised 45-minute group sessions per week. This comparison sheds light on the complexities of choosing between medication and physical activity for individuals navigating mental health challenges.Despite the higher preference for running therapy, the study found that adherence to the exercise routine was a challenge, with only 52% of participants sticking to it. In contrast, an impressive 82% of the antidepressant group adhered to their medication regimen over the 16-week period, according to the release.

Surprisingly, the results showed that both interventions, running therapy and antidepressants, led to improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms for 44% of participants in each group. Lead researcher Brenda Penninx highlighted that both approaches were equally effective in addressing depression, but they had distinct impacts on physical health parameters.

Antidepressants, while generally safe and effective for most individuals, showed downsides such as negative effects on body weight, heart rate variability, and blood pressure. On the other hand, running therapy demonstrated positive effects on general fitness and heart rate.

Penninx emphasized the significance of having both therapies available for managing depression. While running therapy may appeal to many, the challenges of adherence underscored the practical difficulties in implementing exercise as a consistent intervention, despite its significant benefits.

In conclusion, the study suggests that both running therapy and antidepressants have their places in the toolkit for managing depression, with each offering unique advantages and considerations.Addressing depression is crucial for positive outcomes, and in most cases, antidepressants prove to be a reliable choice. However, not all patients respond to or are willing to take antidepressants. Lead researcher Brenda Penninx highlights that the study's results indicate that exercise therapy, particularly running, could be a viable and potentially even a better choice for some individuals.

It's essential to recognize that exercise therapy extends beyond running, as Penninx pointed out in an interview with Fox News Digital. The broader category of exercise therapy offers diverse options, allowing individuals to choose activities that align with their preferences and lifestyle.

In essence, the study suggests that incorporating exercise into depression management could be a valuable alternative, catering to those who may not respond well to or prefer not to rely solely on antidepressant medications. This multifaceted approach acknowledges the individuality of experiences and preferences in the treatment of depression.