Sometimes, we all get in a funk, but a recent study suggests that getting your steps in can boost your mood and may even help with more serious symptoms.
If you’re feeling down, you might want to go for a walk.
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that people who took more than 5,000 steps in a day noticed an improvement in their depression.
According to the analysis of 33 studies involving more than 96,000 adults, higher daily step counts were associated with fewer symptoms of depression overall in the general population.
That’s not surprising, says Cleveland Clinic Psychologist Dr. Kia-Rai Prewitt.
“Exercise has been linked to different neurotransmitters in the brain that bring a sense of enjoyment. Also, physiologically, it can change our body. So, there’s a lot of benefit to exercise that actually has a direct benefit on our mental health,” said Prewitt.
Prewitt finds it encouraging that something as simple as walking can benefit mental health.
However, she notes that some people may struggle to find the motivation to get moving when they’re depressed.
In those situations, she suggests asking a friend or family member to go for a walk with you, which also creates an opportunity to talk.
“We really, sometimes, I think, minimize the importance of social connections. For some people who are introverted, they really value spending time by themselves, and so they may get overwhelmed with a lot of people. But if you notice that you’re spending time by yourself most of the time and you’re not engaging with other folks, then you may start to feel lonely or isolated. It’s good to make connections with people,” Prewitt said.
Prewitt advises that if you notice your depression symptoms don’t seem to be improving with time or are interfering with your life, you should talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.