How does sedentary behavior relate to depression?

Mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, with depression being the most common mental health disorder (Edwards & Loprinzi, 2016; Vancampfort et al., 2018). The two lifestyle behaviors that are most commonly associated with depression are:

Physical Activity
Sedentary Behavior

As sedentary behavior has risen over the years, it has been associated with several long-term conditions. Depression being one of the many associated health conditions correlated with sedentary behavior. Depressive feelings leads to disengagement in physical activity, which further leads to increased engagement in sedentary behavior (Vancampfort et al., 2018; Kandola et al., 2021).

Moving forward

As we come to an understanding towards the detrimental effects of sedentary behavior, research does indicate that we can offset the consequences. Evidence-based research indicate that sedentary behavior is a modifiable risk factor for depression and anxiety disorders (Edwards & Loprinzi, 2016, Kandola et al., 2021).

How?

Engaging in an active lifestyle allows an individual to experience beneficial effects on not only their physical health, but mental health as well. Recognizing the amount of time you spend sedentary is the first step towards a healthier well-being!

The links between sedentary behavior and depression?

There is a linear increase in prevalence of depressive symptoms with increasing sedentary time beyond 1-2 hours a day.

Vancampfort et al., 2018)

Preventing the detrimental effects of sedentary behavior:

Reducing sedentary behavior simply begins by incorporating healthy and active habits. Starting with light activity is better than nothing as the volume and intensity of physical activity can always improve over time.

PA Guidlines

Suggestions to reduce time spent sedentary:

Develop a consistent schedule within your everyday life that involves physical activities that you enjoy!

Benefits of physical activity on our mental health:

Physical activity can be an adjunct to the treatment of mental health disorders as it has antidepressant properties.

(Edwards & Loprinzi, 2016)

References:

Edwards, M. K., & Loprinzi, P. D. (2016). Effects of a sedentary behavior—Inducing randomized controlled intervention on depression and mood profile in active young adults. *Mayo Clinic Proceedings*, *91*(8), 984–999. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2016.03.021](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2016.03.021)

Kandola, A. A., del Pozo Cruz, B., Osborn, D. P. J., Stubbs, B., Choi, K. W., & Hayes, J. F. (2021). Impact of replacing sedentary behaviour with other movement behaviours on depression and anxiety symptoms: A prospective cohort study in the UK Biobank. *BMC Medicine*, *19*(1), 1–12. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-021-02007-3](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-021-02007-3)

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition*. (n.d.). 118.

Physical Activity Reduces Stress | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA*. (n.d.). Retrieved June 30, 2022, from [https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/other-related-conditions/stress/physical-activity-reduces-st](https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/other-related-conditions/stress/physical-activity-reduces-st)

Vancampfort, D., Stubbs, B., Firth, J., Van Damme, T., & Koyanagi, A. (2018). Sedentary behavior and depressive symptoms among 67,077 adolescents aged 12–15 years from 30 low- and middle-income countries. *International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity*, *15*(1), 73. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-018-0708-y](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-018-0708-y)