Exercise, diet, sunlight, and good sleep have been found to be useful in the treatment of depression. A randomized, controlled study by Spanish researchers has found that lifestyle modifications significantly help depression patients taking antidepressant medications. The intervention group received specific written recommendations to walk at least 1 hour per day, get exposure to sunlight for 2 hours per day, eat a healthy diet, and suggestions for good sleep hygiene. After 6 months, this group had significantly lower observed and self-rated depression than the control group.
Try these simple lifestyle changes if you are feeling blue, but don’t change your medications without consulting your physician.
Fred Hardinge DrPH, RD
Source: PositiveChoices.com. Used with permission.