City Research Online

Abstract

Depression has profound social, economic and personal consequences for the affected individual, and it shows no signs of abating in the general population. There are several treatment modalities available for this debilitating illness, however, effective as they are, these treatments have pitfalls. Antidepressants are the most common form of treatment for depression; they are relatively cheap and effective, but induce uncomfortable side-effects, some of which can be life threatening. These can include cardiotoxicity, weight gain, serotonin syndrome, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth and urinary retention. Electroconvulsive therapy has been used in the treatment of depression since the late 1930s and is effective particularly in severe depression. It is quick acting, but its use tend to evoke moral and ethical debates. Psychological therapies have been used since the 9th century and are effective and have little side-effects but they are relatively expensive and there is a long waiting list in the NHS for these therapies. Emerging evidence suggest a place for the use of exercise to improve depressive symptoms. The article discusses evidence in support of exercise and ecotherapy in particular to alleviate symptoms of depression and promote recovery. This has implications for mental health nursing practice.

Publication Type:	Article
Subjects:	R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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