The role of exercise in the treatment of depression

Abstract

In Japan, the number of patients with depression is increasing. Although psychotherapy, drug therapy, environmental manipulation, and other strategies are applied in treating depression, the remission rates are not necessarily high. Furthermore, even if remission is achieved and allows patients to return to work, the rates of repeated work absences are also known to be high. In addition to the current therapeutic strategies, non - drug therapies are also expected to be important. Among such treatments, exercise therapy has a large role. In the treatment of depression, exercise therapy may contribute to relieving psychiatric symptoms through the noradrenergic nervous system and to allow continuation of work through the maintenance of high physical activity. In terms of preventing depression, exercise therapy is also considered to play a large role and expected to be effective in alleviating depressive symptoms and improving the sleep rhythm.