Wildfire Smoke Dims Both Fitness and Mental Health
A new study reveals a troubling connection between wildfire smoke, decreased physical activity, and worsened mental health. Researchers at the University of the Fraser Valley discovered that when wildfire smoke blanketed British Columbia in the fall of 2020, residents responded by exercising less, leading to increased feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression.
This research, published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, provides a stark look at the impact of environmental factors on our well-being. The link between physical activity and mental health is well-established. Earlier this year, a comprehensive review of over 200 studies confirmed exercise as an effective treatment for depression, even comparing its effects favorably to psychotherapy or medication. In fact, Canadian guidelines since 2016 recommend exercise as a first-line treatment option for depression.
However, the study highlights a significant gap between knowing and doing. The wildfire scenario presented a real-world example of how environmental pressures can derail even those with good intentions to stay active. As Dr. Luisa Giles, lead author of the study, explained:
"The respondents got 20 to 30 minutes less moderate or vigorous exercise on smoky days; they also reported higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Crucially, the bigger the drop in an individual’s physical activity levels, the more likely they were to suffer a drop in mental health."
This research sheds light on two critical factors:
First, individuals who possessed higher levels of autonomy, self-determination, and intrinsic motivation were more likely to find ways to maintain their exercise routine during smoky conditions. Unfortunately, these are the same traits often undermined by depression, creating a dangerous cycle: depression leads to decreased exercise, which further exacerbates depressive symptoms.
Second, a startlingly low 10% of study participants discussed the challenge of exercising in polluted air with their doctors. Given the current constraints on primary care access in the U.S., this barrier significantly limits the use of exercise as a tool to fight depression.
Despite the evidence, most doctors simply lack the time and expertise to effectively prescribe and monitor exercise regimens.
Recognizing this gap, the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology recently launched a groundbreaking certification program for personal trainers and exercise physiologists. This specialized training, developed in collaboration with researchers at the University of British Columbia, equips professionals to effectively guide individuals struggling with depression through tailored exercise programs.
Pilot programs have already demonstrated promising results. For instance, the "Mind in Motion" program, designed for university students experiencing depression, combined weekly exercise classes with behavioral support strategies. After six weeks, participants exhibited a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, moving from moderate depression to the border between minimal and mild depression.
Although scientists continue to investigate the exact mechanisms by which exercise combats depression, the evidence is clear that it works.
What Can We Do?
In the face of environmental challenges like wildfire smoke, Giles suggests using N95 masks for outdoor exercise and exploring community initiatives that offer free access to indoor fitness facilities on days with poor air quality.
For those struggling with depression and its associated motivational hurdles, a referral to a certified exercise professional could provide the support needed to start or maintain a healthy exercise routine.
As Alex Hutchinson, author of "The Explorer’s Gene: Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map," points out, the connection between physical activity and mental well-being is a powerful tool for individuals and society.
"Scientists are still debating exactly how exercise combats depression– whether it’s elevated levels of mood-altering brain chemicals like serotonin, the growth of new brain cells, or even the sense of accomplishment that accompanies a successful workout," he writes. "Whatever the mechanism, it’s increasingly clear that it works."
Will the U.S. Embrace This Approach?
The success of these Canadian initiatives begs the question: will the United States follow suit and prioritize exercise as a crucial component of mental health care? With growing evidence and successful models already in place, the potential for a paradigm shift in how we approach mental health seems promising.
