New scientific research has shown that exercise and muscle strength may be an important indicator of a person's psychological health.
Idman.Biz reports that researchers have found that people with low handgrip strength are more likely to experience depressive symptoms in the future. The meta-analysis examined long-term health indicators for more than 497,000 participants.
According to the data, the risk of depression was recorded to be 26-42 percent higher in people with the weakest physical indicators compared to the strongest participants. Scientists say this should be seen as an indicator of overall physical resilience and a healthy lifestyle, rather than a direct cause and effect.
The study emphasizes that muscle strength may also be related to brain health. According to some studies, in people with high physical strength, the volume of the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and emotions, is associated with better indicators.
Experts note that regular physical activity can help protect the nervous system, increase emotional resilience, and support psychological health as you age. However, the study does not present exercise as a stand-alone treatment for depression.