Supervisors info:
Ψυχουντάκη Μ., Καθηγήτρια, ΣεΦΑΑ, ΕΚΠΑ
Summary:
In this literature review, the effect of physical activity and exercise on the prevention and treatment of depression is investigated. The purpose of this is to raise the awareness of the reading public on mental health and well-being issues. For the preparation of this work, 70 English scientific articles were used and translated into the Greek language. To better understand the issue, the terms "depression", "physical activity" and "exercise" were first clarified. Then the symptoms were analyzed, as well as the consequences of the depressive disorder on both the physical and mental health of the sufferers. At this point, it was deemed necessary to cite the mental health benefits of exercise, including enhancing cognitive function and preventing various mental disorders. Some forms of sports activity that were highlighted for their beneficial effects were walking, running and exercising in water. Having referred, therefore, to the methods of preventing the depressive disorder, it was considered necessary to investigate ways of combating it through exercise. Various researches have highlighted exercise as an important anti-depressant treatment, due to its effect on the neurocirculation of the brain, as well as the induced increase in hippocampal volume. In particular, aerobic training, resistance training, water exercise and dancing, are all forms of sports activity with a significant anti-depressant effect. In summary, the treatment of depression, consisting of 3 main pillars, those of antidepressants, psychotherapy and physical - non-pharmacological treatments, is the result of a mixture of various methods, such as the adoption of healthy lifestyles, engaging in activities and increased socialization. In conclusion, solving the global issue of depression becomes more necessary than ever, to achieve a quantitative and qualitative better life.
Keywords:
mental health, symptoms, consequences, sports activity, treatment
