Table 1 Lifestyle medicine for depression
Lifestyle element | Evidence level | Cost | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
Diet | CS, LO | Moderate expense | Relationship found between dietary quality and depression; RCTs now required to validate |
PA/Exercise | CS*, LO*, CTs | Inexpensive | Strong evidence of efficacy for improving mood |
Recreation | OB, CTs | Variable expense | No studies exploring recreational activities for depression (aside from music therapy) |
Relaxation & meditative techniques | CTs | Inexpensive | Evidence supports relaxation techniques (especially with a mindfulness component) in improving mood |
Sleep | CS, LO, CTs | No expense | Strong causal link between sleep amount and quality, and depression risk |
Environment | CS, LO, CTs | Potentially not adjustable | Association between reduction of pollution and mood; CTs showing NAT improves mood |
Socialization | CS, LO | No expense | Strong association between social support/networks and mental health |
Animal/Pet therapy | CS, CTs | Moderate expense | Studies support the psychological benefits of animals and pets |
Vices (smoking, alcohol) | CS, LO | Potential to save money | Association between smoking and alcohol, and depressed mood |