Prolonged sitting linked to depression risk in teens

Sitting for too long is associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms in adolescents, according to a study. The research, published in the journal Lancet Psychiatry, found that an additional 60 minutes of light activity, such as walking or doing chores, daily at the age of 12 was linked with a 10 per cent reduction in depressive symptoms at age 18. “Our findings show that young people who are inactive for large proportions of the day throughout adolescence face a greater risk of depression by age 18,” said the study’s lead author. “We found that it’s not just more intense forms of activity that are good for our mental health, but any degree of physical activity that can reduce the time we spend sitting is likely to be beneficial.”

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Optimism may lower stroke severity, inflammation

Stroke survivors with high levels of optimism may have lower inflammation levels, reduced stroke severity, and less physical disability after three months, according to a study. Researchers examined the relationship among optimism, inflammation, stroke severity, and physical disability for three months among 49 stroke survivors. “Our results suggest that optimistic people have a better disease outcome, thus boosting morale may be an ideal way to improve mental health, and recovery after a stroke,” the study said.

— Agencies