I find it very surprising that an article about treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (“Treating anxiety without SSRIs,” J Fam Pract. 2010; 59:148-154) was published without a single mention of exercise. The body of research showing the positive effect of exercise and fitness on anxiety and depression is rather extensive, so it seems that it would be difficult to miss in a literature review.
Given the pressures we face to reduce costs as well as improve overall health, it is disappointing to see articles published concerning treatment of any condition without discussing exercise. As a medicine, physical exercise probably has the fewest adverse reactions and the greatest beneficial side effects of any treatment for GAD. It may not always be fully effective, but it should at least be discussed as a treatment option.
This is a call for all future articles to include the impact of exercise and fitness on the condition being discussed. Exercise really is the most important, often the most effective, and usually the least expensive medicine we can prescribe for our patients.
The Web site, exerciseismedicine.org, affiliated with the American College of Sports Medicine, is an excellent resource.
David L. Weldy, MD, PhD
University of Toledo College of Medicine
Toledo, Ohio