Lifestyle News Desk, World Mental Health Day is celebrated across the world every year on 10 October. World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year with the aim of raising awareness about the increase in mental illnesses across the world and educating about their prevention. Let us tell you: Recent research has shown that running regularly can provide relief from depression. Running is as effective as antidepressants for mental health. This information came to light in a survey conducted by Amsterdam-based Vrije University. Researcher Professor Brenda Penninx said, “We found that patients who made regular running a part of their daily routine had significantly less heart disease than those who took the drug after 16 weeks. There was a similar reduction in depression compared to These patients not only got mental benefits but their obesity also reduced. Running also improves your heart rate and keeps your body fit. In contrast, patients suffering from depression who received the drug experienced no physical benefits.
How was this study prepared?
Scientists conducted this study on 141 patients suffering from depression. Of these, 45 people chose antidepressant medication, while others decided to run regularly for 16 weeks as a form of exercise. Finally, a total of 44 percent in both groups acknowledged relief from depression, but the runners also described themselves as physically fit. Participants in the running group experienced improvements in depression symptoms as well as weight, waist fat, blood pressure and heart function. Researchers say that these physical problems should also be taken into account in maintaining mental health. Based on this, it can be said that the group which opted for running got more benefits.
How does running help relieve depression?
1. Production of happy hormones
Researchers said that daily running produces happiness hormones like serotonin and dopamine in the body. Running reduces cortisol levels in the body, a hormone that increases depression.
2. Negative thoughts go away
Other hormones produced in the body during running, such as endorphins and glutamate, help flush out negative thoughts in the brain. In such a situation, running daily keeps your mind good.
3. Get better sleep
Often due to stress and depression, one cannot get deep and good sleep. When you run daily, your body signals your brain to rest. These tips reduce depression and improve sleep.
4. Weight loss
Running regularly reduces weight and improves personality. It is positive for depression patients. Looking good eliminates negative thoughts from your mind and provides relief from depression.
What is depression-
Depression is considered a serious mental health problem. It is a serious medical illness that has a negative impact on the way you perceive, think and act in situations. Depression increases feelings of sadness and you may lose interest in activities you previously enjoyed. Suicidal thoughts may also increase as the problem increases. This requires the advice of a psychiatrist.