Exercise and Severe Depression: Clinical and Biological Analysis

Exercise and Severe Depression: Clinical and Biological Analysis

The study aimed to evaluate the use of exercise as a complementary strategy to treat severe major depression in inpatients.

Hypothesis: Exercise can be used as a safe and efficacious complimentary strategy in severe depressed inpatients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder according to M.I.N.I (DSM-IV) criteria American Psychiatry Association(1994)
• score of 25 or more on Hamilton-17
• not being involved in other physical activity programs during the hospitalization
• aged between 18 and 60 years
• being able to read, understand, and provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• have three or more cardiovascular risk factors according to Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)
• are unable to exercise due other clinical condition
• have diagnosis of Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or current use of alcohol or other drugs according to M.I.N.I DSM-IV criteria American Psychiatry Association(1994)
• if they are taking beta-blocking medications