Over 330 million people worldwide suffer from depression, impacting various aspects of their lives. Physical activity can help prevent depression, but globally, a large percentage of people do not meet recommended guidelines. Research shows that physical inactivity is a major public health issue and contributes to various health problems and even premature mortality.
Counting daily steps is a simple way to increase physical activity levels, with studies showing that reaching a certain number of steps per day can reduce depressive symptoms and lower the risk of developing depression. Longitudinal studies have shown that increasing step counts can significantly reduce the risk of depression.
While counting daily steps can be beneficial, more research is needed to fully understand the protective role of daily step counts in preventing depression during adulthood. Other forms of physical activity, such as walking and yoga, can also be effective in preventing depression. Promoting physical activity among the general population remains a challenge, but wearable devices like fitness trackers make it easier for people to monitor their daily steps and stay active.
Source
Photo credit indianexpress.com