Walking may benefit patients with depression

For individuals who require a prescription to buy Paxil to treat depression, simply adding some more walking to their daily routine may deliver strong benefits, according to a new study published in the journal Mental Health and Physical Activity.

In the study, a team of researchers analyzed results from eight previously conducted investigations into the efficacy of various depression treatment programs. The results showed that patients with mild to moderate depression who were enrolled in exercise programs that involved daily walking experienced major improvements in their symptoms.

The researchers said that not all current treatments for depression are effective in every patient. Some do not respond to medications while others gain less from counseling. However, the results seemed to indicate that the majority of depression patients benefit from walking programs.

Still, the team said more research needs to be conducted, as there have been relatively few randomized clinical trials assessing the benefits of walking. Determining exactly why physical activity benefits depression patients could make it easier for doctors to recommend exercise programs as part of standard treatments.