New data shows how exercise reduces symptoms of depression

The brain and body mechanisms by which exercise reduces symptoms of depression have been explored by UCL researchers.

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is associated with many cognitive and cognitive impairments, including learning and memory impairments. Physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, has been found to reduce depressive symptoms, but so far the mechanisms behind this are not well understood.

A new review article published by Translation of Psychiatry, researchers present a new hypothesis to understand the antidepressant effects of exercise. They believe that this process may depend on motivation, which is very important for reducing many symptoms of depression, such as anhedonia (lack of interest or pleasure in life experiences), low energy and ‘brain fog’.

The team reviewed research papers that examined the mechanisms of depression in humans and animals and concluded that depression, particularly anhedonia, is associated with elevated inflammation (caused by the response of immune system). Importantly, inflammation is also associated with impaired dopamine transmission. These biological changes may represent important mechanisms leading to changes in motivation, especially a reduced willingness to make physical or mental efforts.

Meanwhile, exercise reduces inflammation, boosts dopamine activity, and boosts motivation. Researchers believe this may be an important reason why exercise has an anti-depressant effect.

Lead author Dr Emily Hird (UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience) said: “The antidepressant effect of aerobic exercise has been convincingly demonstrated in randomized controlled trials, but the method This is partly because it probably involves different biological and psychological processes.

“For example, along with a positive effect on inflammation, dopamine and reward processing, exercise also reduces oxidative stress and improves self-esteem and independence.

However, we suggest that exercise – especially aerobic activities that make you sweat and breathe – reduces inflammation and boosts dopamine transmission, which in turn increases the desire to exercise,’ and thus boosts overall motivation.

The team hopes that this understanding of how exercise reduces symptoms of depression will help inform the development of new treatments – such as individualized programs.

Dr Hird said: “Understanding the mechanisms underlying the stress-induced effects of physical activity on depression may also help us understand the mechanisms underlying stress and the development of new strategies to treat it. intervention, especially individual intervention, and social conditioning.”

To further test their hypothesis, the researchers advise that large randomized controlled trials should be conducted that examine the anti-depressant effects of exercise, while testing the effect of variables including inflammation, dopamine transmission and motivation.

It will also be important to investigate any potential barriers to exercise.

Dr Hird said: “Tackling barriers to exercise – particularly in people with depression – is important, as regular exercise can reduce symptoms, boost mood and keep people on track. As part of this, finding strategies to encourage exercise is key.”

The team is now conducting an experiment based on the hypothesis presented in the review, which will include 250 participants aged 18 to 60 and is funded by the Wellcome Mental Health Award.

The review paper was funded by the Rosetrees Trust.

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