Can exercise be just as effect as an anti depressant drug?

Answer 1

No, because most antidepressants are now extended release. Exercise is highs and lows, temporary. Medication is controlled and sustained over time.

Answer 2

Read this:

The basic reasoning behind this theory is that exercising has positive effects on one’s body and mind. In support of the psychological benefits, it is argued that exercising increases one’s self-confidence as well as provides a feeling of accomplishment and mastery, which in turn may raise an individual’s overall outlook (http://abcnews.go.com/sections/living/InYourHead/allinyourhead_48.html). By compiling the findings from fifty-one different studies, Spence JC found that a small but notable increase in self-esteem was linked to the lowering of depression (http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1998/10Oct/artal.htm). In addition to the increase in self-esteem, exercise can also provide a more grounded perspective on life. By participating in group exercise the individual is placed in an environment where it is more likely that he will interact with others. The interaction in itself offers a therapeutic affect for those who are so depressed that they choose not to even get out of bed.

But even more convincing to some is the biological argument that supports the link between exercising and improved depression. Currently researchers are studying the various ways the mind alters one’s mood, placing much of their focus on the brain’s neurotransmitters. The two most highly publicized neurotransmitters are beta-endorphins and serotonin. Beta-endorphins are part of the mood regulating chemicals that reduces pain and can even induce euphoria. In fact, it is even now believed that the increase in beta-endorphins when exercising is the true cause of the euphoric state, "runner’s high". However, there are little scientific findings to prove that beta-endorphin has a positive effect on depression (http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1998/10Oct/artal.htm).

Serotonin, nonetheless, is another chemical in the brain that has been successfully linked to mood (http://www.ahealthyme.com/article/primer/100017159). In particular, it is responsible for the availability of neurotransmitters at receptor sites. For the brain to maintain a stabilized mood, it must have balanced levels of serotonin. In cases of manic depression, the cause most often stems from either a lack of serotonin in the brain or inefficiency among the serotonin receptors (http://ww2.lafayette.edu/~loerc/ander.html , http://www.biopsychiatry.com/serotonin.htm ) . Most doctors have relied on drugs such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and specific serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to monitor the levels of serotonin in the brain. However as more studies are being performed on exercise and depression, scientists are hypothesizing that exercise may raise serotonin levels enough so as to help those suffering from depression, an alternative which is inexpensive as well as beneficial for the entire body.

Answer 3

It can be effective but not AS effective as anti-depressant drugs

Answer 4

Exercise is a great thing to do when your down it releases a chemical in your brain called endorphins that make you feel better, If I'm feeling stressed about anything and i exercise it totally picks up my mood.

Answer 5

Yes. Consistent exercise helps your brain to release endorphines that help to make you feel good. It is definately an alternative to filling your body with chemicals and crap that you will become dependant on. Definately try the exercise before poluting your body

Answer 6

hrm. complicated.

exercise can release endorphins that help give you a "natural high" feeling.. personally, i've never experienced this. *grumbles*

getting into better shape might make you feel better about yourself, which might make you feel happier. but it could also work in reverse, giving you a body-dysmorphic syndrome and never being happy with yourself no matter how much you change yourself.

really, if you are experiencing depression, you need to see your doctor or a therapist who can get you feeling better, not a physical trainer.

Answer 7

I'm not sure if its as effective as drugs, but it does increase your endorphins temporarily. If you exercise regularly your body craves the endorphins that come from exercising. Exercising does lift your mood, but I think its temporary.

Answer 8

depends on the severity of the depresion
I would say for mild depression yes majoir depression no

Answer 9

Maybe, but why bother trying? Drugs are much easier in my experience.

Answer 10

As long as you don't have a chronic mental disorder. Yoga and pilates are both great stress releasers.