Exercise and depression in midlife: A prospective study

Lisa Cooper-Patrick, Daniel E. Ford, Lucy A. Mead, Patricia P. Chang, Michael J. Klag

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

84 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives. This study examined the relationship of self-reported physical activity with subsequent depression and psychiatric distress. Methods. Physical activity was assessed in medical school and midlife in 973 physicians as part of a prospective observational study. Outcome measures were the incidence of self-reported clinical depression and psychiatric distress on the General Health Questionnaire. Results. The risk of depression was similar for nonexercisers and exercisers. No relationship was observed between physical activity level and subsequent psychiatric distress. Conclusions. This study found no evidence that exercise reduces risk for depression or psychiatric distress.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)670-673
Number of pages4
JournalAmerican journal of public health
Volume87
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1997

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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