Author: Lynette Craft Ph.D / Frank Perna Ed.D., Ph.D.

Summary:
The mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of exercise remain in debate; however, the efficacy of exercise in decreasing symptoms of depression has been well established. Data regarding the positive mood effects of exercise involvement, independent of fitness gains, suggest that the focus should be on frequency of exercise rather than duration or intensity until the behavior has been well established. The addition of self-monitoring techniques may increase awareness of the proximal benefits of exercise involvement, which is generally reinforcing to the patient.

…Follow-up contact may also be important during exercise adoption. While tis follow-up may present a time challenge to the provider, less time-consuming interactions such as brief telephone contact and automated telephone contact have been shown to increase adherence to exercise programs.

Attached File: 5-The Benefts of Exercise for the Clinically Depressed-CraftPerna.pdf