Aerobic Exercise as an Adjunct Therapy for Depression

This study will compare two groups A and B for 06 weeks to study the reduction in severity of depression.

• Comparison group (Group-A): In this group participants will receive standard antidepressant treatment such as Sertraline (SSRIs) and psychotherapy (CBT) only. After 06 weeks, patients will again be assessed for their level of depression using the BDI scale.
• Experimental group (Group-B): In this group participants will undergo structured exercise program in addition to conventional pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. They will be introduced to aerobic exercises which includes cycling and brisk walking and will undergo three supervised sessions for 35 minutes each, per week for total 06 weeks under supervision of trainee psychiatry.

Inclusion criteria

i. All new patients diagnosed with moderate and severe depression using BDI scale according to ICD-11 criteria between the ages of 18-55 years.

ii. Both genders will be included.

Exclusion criteria

i. Patients with severe physical disabilities such as Spinal cord injuries, severe osteoporosis or medical conditions that prevent exercise such as ischemic changes in ECG pre-exercise.

ii. Pregnant females. iii. Individuals already engaging in physical activities like athletes.