Regular physical activity nearly doubled the cardiovascular benefit in people with depression or anxiety, compared to those without these diagnoses. This is the conclusion of a study presented at the Scientific Session of the American College of Cardiology. The results of the survey add to the evidence for this Exercise improves cardiovascular health by helping to activate the parts of the brain that resist stress.
Fighting depression: exercise is an ally for the brain
+ Combining aerobic exercise and strength training helps a healthy heart
Exercise improves cardiovascular health by helping to activate the parts of the brain that resist stress – Photo: Istock Getty Images
Overall, the study found that people who achieved the recommended amount of weekly physical activity were 17% less likely to experience a major adverse cardiovascular event than those who did the least amount of physical activity. The benefits were greater in those with anxiety or depression, with a 22% lower risk compared with a 10% lower risk in those without these diagnoses.
This was stated by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, USA This does not mean that exercise is only effective for people with depression or anxiety, but that these patients reap a greater cardiovascular benefit from physical activity.
In the study, records of more than 50,000 patients were analyzed. A little more than 4,000 people have experienced an adverse cardiovascular event, including a heart attack, chest pain caused by a blocked artery or undergoing cardiac procedures.
The researchers looked at how this pattern occurred among patients diagnosed with depression or anxiety, compared with those who were not. The second analysis showed that depressed patients more than doubled benefit from exercise, in terms of reducing cardiovascular disease risk, than non-depressed subjects. The same thing happened in anxious patients.
The research expands on previous studies that used brain imaging to determine how Exercise improves cardiovascular health by helping to keep the brain’s stress response under control. Individuals with depression or anxiety have an increase in stress-related neural activity and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. According to the researchers, every time you think about physical activity that reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, there is no brain link. However, The study emphasizes the importance of the stress-related neural mechanisms through which physical activity works to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The researchers noted that previous research shows that people can reduce their risk of heart disease even if they do not achieve the recommended amount of physical activity. Any amount of exercise is beneficial, especially for those suffering from depression or anxiety, because in addition to feeling better, people will significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.
* The information and opinions expressed in this text are the sole responsibility of the author, and do not necessarily align with ge/Eu Atleta’s view.
Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.