Walking back to happiness

PA 261/09 A unique exercise programme which has been proven to help women living with depression has been unveiled by researchers from The University of Nottingham. The programme is a result of a two year-long study in the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Physiotherapy. Its mission has been to help women who are living with depression, characterised by low levels of physical activity, increasing health and weight problems, low self-esteem and a lack of motivation. Previous research by the team had found that standard GP-prescribed exercise, usually gym sessions, don't work well for this group as they find them discouraging and lonely, with many dropping out very early on. The team's aim was to come up with a new type of exercise programme which would ensure that the women are supported and motivated for the duration of the treatment. Around 40 women with depression in the Nottingham area took part in the research. It involved a pragmatic randomised trial of a standard 'exercise-as-usual' programme compared with the new, individually tailored and supported plan.