Running away from depression

A new study into how exercise can help women overcome depression is looking for volunteers to step on to the treadmill. The value of sport and exercise for people who are depressed is well-documented but there is evidence that gym sessions prescribed by doctors are generally regarded as unhelpful and lonely by women sufferers. Now scientists at The University of Nottingham's School of Nursing have come up with a new type of exercise programme which they believe will be much more effective at banishing the blues. It's targeted at women who are in a vicious circle of depression perpetuated by low levels of physical activity, increasing health and weight problems, low self-esteem and lack of motivation. Previous research by the School of Nursing has found that the standard prescribed exercise programmes, usually gym sessions, don't work for this group of sufferers as they are left to arrange them and carry them out alone. The researchers have now come up with a new system of 'mentored' exercise which they think could provide the key to breaking the cycle of depression. They're looking for up to 40 women with depression living in the Nottingham area to take part in a randomised trial of both the standard exercise programme, and the new type of individually-tailored programme which includes personal motivational support from mental health professionals and exercise consultants.