The study findings were published March 2 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Lynn Bufka is senior director of practice transformation and quality with the American Psychological Association. She said, when targeting depression, “it’s unclear if exercise alone is sufficient, or if exercise is best when incorporated with more traditional interventions, such as psychotherapy or medication.”
What is clear, Bufka said, is that “exercise can release endorphins and other brain chemicals that increase well-being, and exercise can serve as a positive activity away from negative thoughts or behaviors that can increase depression.”
The other thing to consider is that, “oftentimes, exercise happens with others, which is a natural social interaction,” Bufka noted. “Feeling confident and capable in our physical activities supports our mood, too. We have a sense of control and mastery about at least some aspects of our lives.”
Even in normal times, the challenge is figuring out what kind of exercise — and how much of it — is needed to gain a mental health boost. And these aren’t normal times, she said.
“In this particular instance, the onset of the pandemic and all the accompanying changes was a significant change in participants’ lives,” Bufka stressed. “Participants had to adjust to a large number of life changes all at one time, so it would be really surprising to think that increased depression is simply a result of a drop in activity.”
So, for however long the pandemic persists, she advised maintaining mental health by focusing on “overall well-being.”
“In general, staying engaged is critical,” whether that be in terms of physical activity, social connection or intellectual challenges, Bufka said. “Have reasons to get up and start the day, even if it feels a bit artificial at first to think about ‘scheduling’ activities.”
Also, try to view current events as a challenge, rather than a threat. “If this is hard, find a trusted friend or family member that is supportive and helps you to look at situations from different perspectives,” Bufka suggested.
More information
There’s more on exercise and mental health at National Alliance on Mental Illness.
SOURCES: Silvia Saccardo, PhD, assistant professor, department of social and decision sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh; Lynn Bufka, PhD, senior director, practice transformation and quality, American Psychological Association; Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, March 2, 2021