The effects of a multi-modal intervention trial of light, exercise, and vitamins on women's mood

The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of a tri-modal intervent ion (LEVITY) to improve women's mood. This eight-week randomized experiment with a placebo-control group targeted women with symptoms of mild to moder ate depression. Women in the intervention group were instructed to take a b risk 20-minute outdoor walk at target heart rate of 60% of maximum heart ra te, to increase light exposure throughout the day and to take a specific vi tamin regimen. Women in the control group took a daily placebo vitamin. The sample consisted of 112 women ages 19-78 who reported mild to moderate dep ressive symptoms. They were in otherwise good health and were not currently taking any mood-altering medication. Pre- and post-intervention assessment utilized five measures of mood: Center for Epidemiology Studies Depression Scale, Profile of Mood States, Depression-Happiness Scale, Rosenberg Self- Esteem Scale, and the General Well-Being Schedule. Analysis of covariance i ndicated that the intervention was effective in improving women's overall m ood, self-esteem, and general sense of well-being and in decreasing symptom s on two measures of depression. Of particular note, the data from all five outcome measures supported the efficacy of the intervention. In addition, a high level of adherence to the intervention protocol was observed with tw o-thirds of the women reporting 100% adherence. Study implications suggest that this type of intervention may provide an effective, clinically managea ble therapy for mild-to-moderately depressed women who prefer a self-direct ed approach or who have difficulties with the cost or side-effects of medic ation or psychotherapy. (C) 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights rese rved.