The Use of Exercise to Reduce Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged Women

Friday, 22 February 2019

Salema Coaxum, BSN
Marybelle and S Paul School of Nursing and Health Professions, Brandman University, Irvine, CA, USA

Mental illness is a health condition that affects a person’s ability to function in day to day activities. Millions suffer from mental illness, and mental illness is listed as the number one cause of disability in the United States. Depression, which is a form of mental illness, is classified as the number one cause of disability worldwide. Women experience depression at twice the rate of men. Due to the stigma associated with having a mental illness, many opt not to seek treatment for mental health disorders such as depression. In addition, treatment with anti-depressant medications have been known to elicit unfavorable side effects, which are a major factor in patient non-compliance. Relapse is a common occurrence for those diagnosed with depression. Research indicates the use of exercise is a healthy and natural way to decrease symptoms associated with depression. Physical activity naturally increases the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is the chemical linked to depressive disorders. Aerobic activity has been specifically noted as having increased effects on serotonin levels. Thirty middle-aged women ages 35-60 performed supervised aerobic activity for two days a week over a period of ninety days. Each client confirmed they were in good health with no physical limitations. Aerobic activity included exercises that increased the heart rate such as moderate jogging, high intensity interval training (HIIT), strength training, isometric exercises, and stretching. Sessions lasted forty-five minutes. Each participant completed a patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression before starting the intervention, and again after the intervention was completed. The PHQ-9 is a self-administered, nine-item depression scale, used to assist clinicians in diagnosing depression and evaluating response to treatment. In order to participate in the intervention, participants had to have a score of 8 or greater on the PHQ-9, which indicates mild depression. Out of thirty participants, 25% completed the intervention. Participants attended 95% of exercise sessions. At the end of 90-days, remaining participants reported having no depressive symptoms. Aerobic activity was successful in alleviating depression by 100% in remaining participants.