Scientifically Proven: Physical Activity Reduces Symptoms of Depression

Regular physical activity is one of the most important components of a healthy lifestyle. The World Health Organization recommends walking 6,000 to 10,000 steps per day to maintain a basic level of physical activity.

British researchers have found that physically active individuals are 98% less likely to experience depressive symptoms. This conclusion comes from a study conducted by psychiatrists at University College London.

The scientists discovered a clear link between physical fitness and mental health. They concluded that people with lower physical strength are at a significantly higher risk of developing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

The study involved 153,000 participants from the UK. The researchers analyzed demographic data, weight, height, physical condition, and the presence of symptoms of depression or anxiety. The findings revealed that individuals with low physical strength were 98% more likely to suffer from depression and 60% more likely to experience anxiety compared to those with higher physical strength.

Additionally, American scientists who tracked the lifestyle habits of 55,000 people (aged 18 to 100) over a period of 15 years found that running can add up to three years to a person’s life. These results were published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

The positive effects of running are attributed to the cardiovascular load it provides, which strengthens the heart and circulatory system. Running also enhances lung capacity and supports overall respiratory health. According to the study, regular runners had a 30% lower risk of death from all causes and a 45% lower risk of death from cardiovascular diseases.

Another study, conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge, also confirmed that any form of physical activity helps reduce the risk of premature death. These results were published in Nature Medicine.