Depression

Physical Activity and Emotional Wellbeing

According to the Office of National Statistics , mixed anxiety and depression is experienced by 9.2% of adults in Britain. This is followed by general anxiety at 4.7 % and depression (without the symptoms of anxiety) at 2.8%.

• Regular physical activity appears to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve mood.
• There is some evidence that regular physical activity may protect against the development of mild forms of depression.
• Regular physical activity is associated with improved self-esteem, particularly among young people.

SOURCES:

• Office for National Statistics (2000).  Psychiatric morbidity among adults living in private households, 2000.  London: Office for National Statistics.
• Dunn AL, Triveldi MH, O’Neal HA. Physical Activity dose-response effects on outcomes of depression and anxiety. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 2001, 33 (Supppl.):S587-S597; Glennister D. Exercise and mental health: a review. Journal of the Royal Society of Health, 1996, 116:7-13; Hassmen P, Koivula N, Uutela A. Physical Exercise and psychological well-being: a population study in Finland. Preventive Medicine, 2000, 30:17-25.
• Evans J, Roberts G. Physical competence and the development of children’s peer relations. Quest, 1987, 39:23-25; Maxwell K, Tucker L. Effects of weight training on the emotional well-being and body image of females: predictors of greatest benefit. American Journal of Health Promotion¸ 1992, 6:338-334; Sonstroem R. Exercise and self-esteem. Sports Science Review, 1984, 12:123-155.