Exercise Can Lift A Heavy Heart

For the millions of Americans striken each year with depression, they may want to consider walking, running, and even swimming away from their problems. Recent studies show that any form of exercise is as effective as antidepressant medications in reducing the symptoms on those with major depression. It doesn't seem to matter how long you need to exercise. Just get up and do it!
A study done five years ago found that just 10 months of exercise outperformed the antidepressant Zoloft in easing symptoms in young adults with moderate to severe depression.
A study done in 2005, by researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, found that 30 minute aerobic workouts three to five times a week cut symptoms by 50 percent in young adults.
Experts agree that those truly depressed can find it rough to get into an exercise routine. That's were loved ones can play a key role. By urging a depressed friend or family member to join them, they're offering helpful support in getting people to maintain exercise. For those who are depressed, exercise may prove to be a viable, worry-free alternative that has great cardiovascular benefits.