Sedentary behavior and depression among adults: a review.
BACKGROUND
Physically inactive lifestyles and sedentary behaviors (SB) are key contributors to ill health. Although the association between SB (e.g., watching TV/using the computer) and physical health has been well documented, increasing research has focused on the possible link between SB and mental health (e.g., depression).


OBJECTIVE
This review aims to investigate the effect of SB on the risk of depression in adults.


METHODS
A systematic search for original research articles investigating associations between SB and depression in adults was performed using the several electronic data bases.


RESULTS
A total of seven observational and four intervention studies were included in this review. All observational studies found positive associations between SB and risk of depression, while intervention studies showed contradictory results.


CONCLUSIONS
Evidence for the relationship between SB and risk of depression in adults is limited by methodological weaknesses. However, on balance, this review suggests that SB is associated with an increased risk of depression. Further studies are needed assessing different types of SB and depression; the interrelationship between physical activity, SB, and depression; causal links between SB and depression; and intervention strategies aimed at reducing SB and their effects on risk of depression.
Teychenne
Megan
M
Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia. mteych@deakin.edu.au
Ball
Kylie
K
Salmon
Jo
J
D000328:Adult; D003863:Depression / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D008603:Mental Health; D005082:Physical Exertion; D012307:Risk Factors; D057185:Sedentary Behavior