New research suggests that a small amount can help fight depression

Exercise is the most popular suggestion for well-being, be it mental or physical. It’s so ubiquitous that it’s almost an annoying suggestion to make, but more and more research is emerging in support of it.

A new study shows that even small amounts of exercise can significantly reduce the risk of depression and help people feel better and have fewer days of poor mental health in the long term.

Photo by Alexander Redl via Unsplash

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The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, found that those who transitioned from a sedentary lifestyle to incorporating more exercise and activity into their daily lives experienced the greatest benefits, a fact researchers find encouraging for many who believe that a variety of workouts per week is unrealistic for their lifestyle.

The results show that those who exercised 1.25 hours per week had an 18% lower risk of depression. Those who exercised 2.5 hours a week had a 25% lower risk. After the 2.5 hour mark, the effects of exercise no longer seemed to have an increased effect on mental health.

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A growing body of research continues to show that workouts are healthy, regardless of intensity or regularity. A good workout can range from a workout at the gym to a brisk walk, something most people can do, especially if they make the time to do it by building more commutes into their lives or making small decisions like that Using bicycles and taking stairs instead of elevators.