[Physical training as a therapeutic method in depression].

Abstract

For 15 years physical fitness training has been an integrated part of a comprehensive inpatient treatment programme for depression. At admission patients are less physically fit than the average population. Training three times a week for six to nine weeks is associated with significant increase in fitness and reduction in depression scores. More than half of the patients continue regular exercise one year after discharge. Retrospectively, patients rank physical fitness training as one of the most valuable elements in the treatment programme. The article describes practical experiences from exercise at the institution. There were no serious complications. A motivated staff is the most important factor in motivating the patients. Physical fitness training is a valuable element in a comprehensive treatment programme for depression.