NEW YORK, Oct 15, (Agencies): New research suggests that running can be as effective as antidepressants in treating depression and anxiety. A study conducted by researchers from Amsterdam examined the impact of antidepressants versus running exercises on mental health and physical well-being. The research aimed to determine whether both approaches have different effects and which one might be more suitable for individuals with depression or anxiety.

Depression and anxiety are widespread conditions with significant health implications, and this study represents the first to directly compare the effects of antidepressants with running exercises on these conditions. The research was presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology's annual conference and published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.

While antidepressants are generally considered safe and effective, researchers aimed to explore alternative treatments, as not all patients respond well to antidepressants or are willing to take them. The study involved 141 patients with depression, anxiety disorders, or both, and the participants were divided into two groups. The first group took an antidepressant medication, specifically escitalopram, over a 16-week trial period. The second group focused on supervised 45-minute group running sessions, aiming for two to three sessions per week.

At the conclusion of the trial, approximately 44% of participants in both groups experienced improvements in depression or anxiety symptoms. This outcome indicates that both the medication and running were equally effective. However, the running group also demonstrated improvements in weight, waist size, blood pressure, and heart health, while the medication group experienced slight deteriorations in these aspects.

The findings suggest that exercise, such as running, may be as beneficial as antidepressants for some individuals, with fewer side effects and added physical health benefits. Nevertheless, the choice between general exercise and medication for the treatment of depression and anxiety remains a multifaceted issue that depends on various individual factors and preferences.

While antidepressants and exercise can both be viable treatment options, patients should consider their motivation to exercise and concerns about potential medication side effects when choosing the most suitable approach. Experts emphasize that there is no need to limit patients to one treatment method, as both options can be complementary and pose no additional risks when used together.

However, addressing the question of which treatment option is best poses challenges. Most studies focus on milder forms of depression due to their prevalence and safety for research purposes, leaving a gap in knowledge about treating severe depression with exercise. Severe depression often requires a combination of treatments and close medical supervision.

It is also unclear whether the instructed doses of exercise and antidepressants are biologically comparable, as well as which types of exercise are most beneficial for specific individuals. Research suggests that both aerobic and anaerobic exercises can yield positive results.

It is crucial to highlight the need for personalized treatment plans, as the effectiveness of both exercise and medication can vary significantly from one person to another. The consensus among experts is that individuals should engage in open discussions with healthcare providers to assess their specific situation and make informed decisions tailored to their needs.

For individuals considering exercise as a means to alleviate depression, it is essential to understand that the time required to experience relief may vary widely. Some people may notice improvements within a few weeks of regular exercise, while others may require several months of consistent effort. Consistency is key to achieving positive effects over time.

In summary, the research demonstrates that running and other forms of exercise can be as effective as antidepressants in treating depression and anxiety for some individuals. However, the choice of treatment should be personalized based on individual preferences and circumstances, with an emphasis on open discussions with healthcare providers to make informed decisions.