In the realm of mental health, the benefits of running, have long been acknowledged. From the well-known “runner’s high” to stress reduction, studies consistently highlight the positive impact of physical activity on mental well-being.
The notion that “running is my therapy” is a sentiment echoed by many endurance athletes who use training as a means to manage their mental health.
However, a recent study has delved into a controversial question: Can running effectively replace traditional mental health treatments like antidepressant medication?
The Study: Antidepressants vs. Running Therapy
The groundbreaking research aimed to investigate the effects of running on two prevalent mental health issues: depression and anxiety.
With over 21 million American adults affected by depression annually and 42.5 million dealing with anxiety, the study targeted a significant portion of the population.
Notably, approximately 56% of those affected do not receive any treatment, a concern that is particularly pronounced within the endurance athlete community.
Research Design and Participants
The study enrolled participants aged 18-70 diagnosed with either depressive or anxiety disorders.
Prior to the research, participants were not engaged in regular exercise (less than once a week) and were not currently using antidepressants. The participants were divided into two groups:
- Antidepressant Group: Prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist.
- Running Therapy Group: Required at least two 45-minute running sessions per week, accompanied by education on injury prevention, sleep, and nutrition.
Findings: Benefits of Running on Mental Health
Surprisingly, the study revealed that both running therapy and antidepressants were equally effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
By week 16, 45% of the antidepressant group and 43% of the running group no longer met the criteria for the diagnosis of depression or anxiety disorder.
While antidepressants exhibited a faster reduction in symptoms, particularly for anxiety, running therapy caught up over time, showing no significant difference by the study’s conclusion.
However, a noteworthy finding was the difference in treatment compliance between the two groups.
The medication group demonstrated significantly higher compliance, with 82.2% completing the study as prescribed, compared to only 52% in the running therapy group.
Benefits of Running on Physical Health
Unsurprisingly, the running therapy group exhibited greater improvement in physical health compared to the antidepressant group.
Positive changes were observed in weight, blood pressure, heart rate, lung capacity, and other physical measures.
Conversely, the antidepressant group experienced some deterioration in physical health, mirroring reported side effects associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the most commonly prescribed class of drugs for depression.
The study’s authors concluded that exercise therapy should be considered a standard practice for individuals dealing with depression and anxiety.
They also emphasized caution when prescribing antidepressants to physically unhealthy patients, given the observed negative impact on physical health.
Caution and Considerations
The study does not advocate for discontinuing medications without consultation with a healthcare provider.
For individuals dealing with severe conditions, exercise therapy may be used as a complementary treatment alongside medication.
The importance of seeking professional advice before making any adjustments to one’s treatment plan is underscored.
Building a Comprehensive Mental Health Toolbox
The study’s results emphasize that mental health is complex, and no single approach is a panacea.
Instead, a holistic approach that considers various aspects of life is recommended. In addition to exercise and mental health professionals, individuals are encouraged to build a comprehensive mental health toolbox. This includes prioritizing:
- Sleep and Rest: Acknowledging the crucial role of quality sleep in mental and physical well-being.
- Balanced Nutrition: Understanding the impact of nutrition on mental health and seeking guidance from professionals, especially for athletes.
- Social Connections: Fostering strong relationships and seeking support from friends, family, and the community.
- Purpose and Meaning: Connecting with activities that extend beyond personal concerns, providing a sense of purpose.
- Self-awareness: Deeply understanding one’s needs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and recognizing when extra help is needed.
- Enjoyment and Fun: Incorporating happiness, fun, and joy as essential elements in mental health maintenance.
The study serves as a reminder that addressing depression and anxiety requires a multifaceted approach.
Individuals are encouraged to avoid hasty decisions and judgment as they navigate their unique mental health journeys.
While there are significant benefits of running, it is not a singular solution, and the pursuit of a healthier self involves utilizing various resources and strategies.
A Lifelong Journey Towards Mental Well-being
In conclusion, the study challenges the simplistic notion that “running is my therapy.” Mental health is an ongoing, multifaceted journey, and the tools within one’s mental health toolbox may evolve over time.
As individuals continue to pay attention to their minds and bodies, it’s crucial to remember that seeking support and employing a range of strategies contribute to building a resilient and healthier self.
