Exercise Helps Ease Depression in Heart Disease Patients

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that moderate exercise helped ease depression in patients with chronic heart failure. It also reduced the number of hospitalizations and deaths among the study’s 2,322 participants, in a small but significant way.

There is a well-known relationship between heart failure and depression; the study’s press release explains that 40 percent of the 5 million people in the United States with heart failure also have clinical depression. The study researchers stress that the exercise is not time-consuming nor overwhelming; just 30 minutes, three times a week made a difference.

The study adds to a growing body of research suggesting exercise can boost not only physical health, but mental health as well.

What other conditions can exercise help?
In addition to improving overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, exercise has been found to improve other conditions, including:

• migraines
• sleep
• hot flashes
• seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Get moving!
Want to begin exercising, but not sure how? Consider these ideas.

• Try dancing, such as flamenco, salsa, or ballroom, or be adventurous and give Zumba a try.
• Do you enjoy being part of a team or group? Try Frisbee, volleyball, or tennis.
• Learn how to do a complete workout at home.

Make sure to get the green light from your health care practitioner before beginning a new exercise program if you’re currently sedentary or if you have specific health conditions.