بررسي تاثير فعاليت هاي جسماني بر ميزان افسردگي دختران دانشجوي دانشگاه شهيد چمران اهواز

The Effects of Physical Activity on the Level of Depression in Female Students of Shahid Chamran University in Ahvaz

Mental disorders such as depression and anxiety affect millions of people worldwide and are associated with increased morbidity and healthcare costs (1). Although several therapeutic modalities such as pharmucotherapy and psychotherapy appear effective in treating the disorders, evidence suggests that they are under used (2). Physical activity (PA) has a positive impact on mental health. and psychological well - being. Some researchers believe that PA is useful to prevente depression symptoms (3). Due to the fact that depression symptoms among Iranians, especially young women, are increasing, and antidepressant medication is strongly used to eliminate this disorder. The purpose of this study was to itn•e.sugate the effects of a 6-week physical activity on the level of depression in female students of Shahid Chamran University in Ahvaz. 792 subjects enrolling in P.E. courses were asked to complete Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). 75 ofʹ subjects showing high depression level according to BD1, were randomly divided into aerobic, swimming and control groups. Aerobic and Swimming can he used to reduce the level of depression. So, because our findings are in agreement with other data f4,5), it can he concluded that PA may play an important role to reduce the depression symptoms of Iranian young female students.