Australian researchers have called for exercise to be the main method to treat depression. A study they have carried out shows that physical exercise is 1.5 times more effective than psychological counseling or drugs. The study included 97 reviews, 1039 trials and 128119 participants. Relevant papers were published in the latest issue of the British Journal of Sports Medicine. According to the data of the World Health Organization, one in eight people (970 million people) in the world suffers from mental disorders. The latest research shows that physical activity is extremely beneficial to improve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercise intervention measures of 12 weeks or less are most effective in reducing psychological symptoms, among which patients with depression, pregnant and postpartum women, AIDS patients or patients with kidney disease benefit the most. Dr. Ben Singh of the University of South Australia, the research leader, said that sports activities must be prioritized to better cope with the increasing mental health situation. Singh said: "It is well known that physical exercise can help improve mental health, but so far it has not been widely used as the first choice of treatment. Our research shows that in all clinical populations, physical activity intervention can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, some people show greater signs of improvement, and high-intensity exercise has a greater effect on depression and anxiety." The study also found that, All types of physical activities and exercises are beneficial, including aerobic exercise, such as walking, resistance training, Pilates and yoga. Importantly, research shows that this kind of exercise that has a positive impact on people's mental health does not take much time. (Xinhua News Agency)