Studies have demonstrated that living a healthy lifestyle that includes regular social interactions, restful sleep, nutritious eating habits and physical activity (while minimizing sedentary behavior and smoking) has been shown to lower depression risk.

Researchers examined various factors including brain structure, genetics, lifestyle factors and metabolic/immune systems in order to identify any underlying mechanisms that could explain this relationship.

WHO reports that one out of every 20 individuals suffers from depression, making this disorder an enormous global public health burden. The causes of depression vary and may involve lifestyle and biological components.

To examine the relationship between depression and these factors, data was drawn from the UK Biobank; an expansive research resource which contains participants’ health, lifestyle and genetic details.