Depressed? You May Not Need Medications.

The total cost of treatment for depression, encompassing medical costs – including medications – and indirect costs such as those affecting the workplace and family, is estimated to be more than $130 billion per year.  However, some physicians believe that figure could be slashed if patients would just try another approach:  take a walk.

One doctor argues that exercise should be the first line of treatment for depression.  A study conducted by Duke University Medical Center offered three types of treatments to patients suffering from depression:  One group did an exercise program, one did exercise combined with medication, and the third did medication alone.

More than 60 percent of participants realized a decrease in depression after the treatment program, regardless of which one.

However, six months after the trial was over, those in the exercise program had the highest rates of continued recovery.
The best part is that you don't have to train for a marathon or spend hours in a gym to achieve results; even a short walk can set the process in motion.