Exercise and depression in midlife: a prospective study.

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Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study examined the relationship of self-reported physical activity with subsequent depression and psychiatric distress. METHODS: Physical activity was assessed in medical school and midlife in 973 physicians as part of a prospective observational study. Outcome measures were the incidence of self-reported clinical depression and psychiatric distress on the General Health Questionnaire. RESULTS: The risk of depression was similar for nonexercisers and exercisers. No relationship was observed between physical activity level and subsequent psychiatric distress. CONCLUSIONS: This study found no evidence that exercise reduces risk for depression or psychiatric distress.