Exercise for Adolescents with Depressive Disorders: A Feasibility Study. (24th July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dopp, Richard R.; Mooney, Ann J.; Armitage, Roseanne; King, Cheryl
• Other Names: Kilbourne Amy Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Depression research and treatment. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-07-24
• Subjects: Depression, Mental -- Periodicals; Depression, Mental -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.8527005
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/257472
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-1321

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives . Adolescence is associated with increased depressive symptoms and decreased aerobic exercise, yet the relationship between exercise and clinical depression among adolescents requires further examination. This study assessed the feasibility of a 12-week intervention designed to increase exercise for adolescents with depressive disorders: Will a teenager with depression exercise? Methods . Participants were 13 adolescents with depression reporting low levels of aerobic exercise. They completed a 12-week intervention (15 supervised exercise sessions and 21 independent sessions). Exercise was measured through the aerobic exercise Questionnaire, actigraphy, and heart-rate monitoring. Depression was measured with the Children's Depression Rating Scale, Revised, and Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology, Self-Report. Results . All participants who started the intervention completed the protocol, attending all supervised exercise sessions. Actigraphy verified 81% adherence to the protocol's independent sessions. Analysis of secondary outcomes showed a significant increase in exercise levels and a significant decrease in depression severity. Initially, ten participants were overweight or obese, and three were healthy weight. After 12 weeks of exercise, the number of participants in the healthy-weight category doubled. Conclusions . Adolescents suffering from depression can complete a rigorous protocol requiring structured increases in aerobic exercise. Participants showed significant increases in exercise, and significant decreases in depressive symptoms.