We now know that depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in our society, affecting more than 264 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Depression is a condition that can cause long-lasting feelings and empty sadness, causing a lack of energy and decreased ability to concentrate. For these reasons, depression can have a major impact on quality of life.

Although some pharmacological treatments can help in the treatment of depression, it is important to find more natural alternatives to help and relieve symptoms for this disease.

Several studies have been looking at the effects of exercise on depression, and researchers have found that, in general, exercise serves as a treatment for depression. In these studies, it is observed that regular aerobic exercise of moderate intensity had a significant antidepressant effect in people with depression and major depressive disorder. These studies further indicate that exercise leads to a greater likelihood of remission of depression compared to a person's usual treatment.

Since regular pharmacological treatments for depression can be more aggressive, exercise can be a good option for people who cannot take certain medications - such as pregnant women, breastfeeding women and teenagers - and for those who find these effects intolerable.

Exercise also appears to play a role in alleviating some of the major symptoms of depression, such as improving mood, enjoying life, reducing negative thoughts.

In addition, people who exercise regularly have a reduced risk of episodes of depression, which means that exercise can help prevent episodes of this type.

It is necessary that you look for the most appropriate lifestyle to avoid this type of disease in any way, and practicing adequate and individualized physical exercise is extremely important. Always ask for a more personalized accompaniment so that your lifestyle is the best possible. Count on us to help and motivate you.

Francisco Magalhães