Combat_Depression_with_Walking_and_Exercising

Do you struggle with symptoms of depression, or do you just need to lift your mood? Try going for a walk.

According to a meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, people are less likely to experience depression symptoms if they walk at least 5,000 steps a day. The analysis found that the more steps people take in a day, the less risk they have of developing depression. Thirty-three studies that covered more than 96,000 participants around the world were analyzed.

The meta-analysis highlights that walking can be an easy, accessible tool for many people to manage their mental health. Walking and other forms of exercise can give people an increased pep in their step. In addition to improving mental health, walking and other forms of exercise can lower mortality risks and decrease your chances of developing heart disease.

There are many wearable fitness trackers on the market that can track the number of steps taken daily.

I Can’t Walk 5,000 Steps a Day. What Else Can I Do?

If you can’t walk 5,000 steps a day, try increasing the amount of time you walk each day little by little. Just walking a bit more can offer mental and physical benefits. If you cannot walk, make time to exercise in whatever way works for you.

Many people benefit from a combination of interventions to treat depressive symptoms, including:

  • Therapy (individual or group therapy)
  • Medication, such as antidepressants

You may also benefit from complementary and alternative therapies. For example, you can try animal-assisted therapy, yoga or acupuncture.

If you are struggling with your mental health, know that it is always OK to seek help! Getting help can improve your quality of life.

If you are having thoughts of suicide or if you are in a crisis, dial 988, a free hotline. A trained, compassionate counselor will talk with you and provide resources.

If you need help, UofL Health – Peace Hospital is open 24/7 for no-cost level-of-care assessments. If you have questions, feel free to call the Assessment and Referral Center at 502-451-3333 or visit our website.

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Lisa Prewitt, LPCA, Grief Recovery Method® Specialist

Lisa Prewitt, LPCA, Grief Recovery Method® Specialist, has been working with children, adolescents and adults in crisis for more than 25 years. She currently serves as the director of behavioral health outreach at UofL Health – Peace Hospital. She is passionate about serving the public and can be found at a walk, at a University of Louisville ballgame or playing pickleball on any given Saturday.

All posts by Lisa Prewitt, LPCA, Grief Recovery Method® Specialist
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