Exercise can reduce the risk of anxiety and depression. That is the topic of our review today.
Anxiety and depression are strikingly common. The evidence points to a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors that influence such conditions. While depression can manifest at any age, it often starts in adulthood. Still, we increasingly recognize that young children and adolescents can suffer from anxiety or depression. Here are some sobering statistics for individuals in the United States:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder. GAD affects nearly seven million adults, or about 3 percent of the population. Females have double the risk of men. This condition often occurs along with major depression.
- Panic disorder. PD affects six million adults or just under 3 percent of the population.
- Social Anxiety Disorder. This condition strikes 15 million Americans or almost 7 percent of the population.
- Major depression. Depression represents the leading cause of disability for those ages 15 to 44 years old. The median age of onset is about 32 years old, and it is more common among women than men.
Did you know that 18 percent of us have experienced an anxiety disorder in the United States in the past year? The National Institute of Mental Health posits that about 7 percent have had a major depressive episode. Let’s turn to physical activity and a new research study illustrating an association between physical activity and mental health.
Go here to learn more how exercise can reduce the risk of anxiety and depression:
