Effects of a Sedentary Behavior-Inducing Randomized Controlled Intervention on Depression and Mood Profile in Active Young Adults

Objective: To examine the effects of a free-living, sedentary behavior-inducing randomized controlled intervention on depression and mood profile.

Patients and methods: Participants who were confirmed to be active via self-report and accelerometry were randomly assigned to either a sedentary behavior intervention group (n=26) or a control group (n=13) by using a 2:1 sample size ratio for intervention and control groups. The intervention group was asked to eliminate all exercise and minimize steps to 5000 or less steps/d for 1 week, whereas the control group was asked to continue normal physical activity levels for 1 week. Both groups completed a depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) and mood (Profile of Moods States) survey preintervention and immediately postintervention. The intervention group was asked to resume normal physical activity levels for 1 week postintervention and then completed the assessments for a third time. All data collection occurred between September 1, 2015, and December 1, 2015.

Results: Patient Health Questionnaire-9 group × time interaction analysis revealed that depression scores significantly increased from visit 1 to visit 2 (F=11.85; P=.001). Paired t tests comparing depression scores from visit 2 to visit 3 exhibited a significant decrease from visit 2 to visit 3 (P<.001). Profile of Moods States group × time interaction analysis paralleled depression results; mood scores significantly increased from visit 1 to visit 2 (F=10.03; P=.003) and significantly decreased from visit 2 to visit 3 (P<.001).

Conclusion: A 1-week sedentary behavior-inducing intervention has deleterious effects on depression and mood. To prevent mental health decline in active individuals, consistent regular physical activity may be necessary.