Depression is a mental health problem that can also affect overall health condition. People with depression usually experience rapid changes in their mindset, behaviour, and emotions. Not only that, people with depression may find it difficult to undergo their daily activities.

There are several ways you can do to reduce symptoms of depression, one of which is by taking anti-depressant drugs. In addition to medication, physical activity can also help lower the risk of depression. Not only adults, this benefit can also be felt by teenagers. In a recent study conducted by University College London, researchers found that physically active children had a lower risk of depression during adolescence.

In their study, the researchers observed 4,257 children participated inthe University of Bristol's “Children of the 90” study. Their information was obtained when they were 12, 14, and 16 years old. Researchers used an accelerometer worn by each participant for at least 10 hours per day for three days to determine their physical activity level; light activity, moderate, or none. Meanwhile, to see the symptoms of depression, each participant was asked to fill out a questionnaire.

It was found that participants who chose not to do physical activities had a higher risk of depression, about 8 to 11% more, compared to those who were physically active. The risk can even be reduced with light activities such as walking. Not only good for physical health, physical activity can also help maintain the health of your soul.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source(s):

• Kandola, A., Lewis, G.M., Osborn, D.P.J., et al (2020). Depressive symptoms and objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behavior throughout adolescence: a prospective cohort study. The Lancet Psychiatry, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(20)30034-1.
• Medical News Today - 'Light activity' may lower risk of depression in young people (2020). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/light-activity-may-lower-depression-risk-in-young-people, 1 February 2020.