Research progress on the mechanism of exercise against depression

Abstract

The substantial global health burden of depression encourages the development of innovative and broadly effective interventions. This paper aimed to examine recent advancements by which exercise works as an antidepressant and recommends optimal types and quantity of exercise as supplemental therapies in treating depression. Sedentary behavior and low physical activity significantly influence the onset of depression. Being an effective treatment option, exercise can significantly reduce depression risk. Exercise exerts antidepressant effects as it modulates neurotransmitters, neuroplasticity, the immune system, and hormone levels. Effective exercise forms include yoga, strength training, and walking/jogging. Tailored exercise regimens that consider individual preferences and tolerability can improve outcomes. Regular exercise enhances general well-being and reduces depressive symptoms. Additional research is needed to understand the complex basis of exercise's effects on depression. Exercise is a cost-effective and accessible intervention for depression management that needs additional exploration. Thus, customized exercise programs, as per each patient's needs, are essential for their successful implementation clinically.

Keywords: 5-hydroxy tryptamine; Depression; Dose-response relationship; Exercise; Glucocorticoid cortisol; Norepinephrine.

Figure 1

Exercise improves depression by modulating neurotransmitters, neuroplasticity, the immune system, and hormonal pathways. DA: Dopamine; BDNF: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor; CORT: Cortisol; 5-HT: 5-hydroxy tryptamine; NE: Norepinephrine.

Figure 2

Molecular mechanisms underlying exercise's antidepressant effects. DA: Dopamine; BDNF: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor; CORT: Cortisol; 5-HT: 5-hydroxy tryptamine; NE: Norepinephrine; HPA: Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal; PLC: phospholipase C; PGC-1α: Proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1-alpha.