Running on empty? Trinity study warns of anxiety and depression experienced by regular marathon runners

""The study highlights that marathon running is not a guarantee of good mental health," said study author Dr Leo Lundy."

""Running long distances regularly may build resilience for some, but may increase vulnerability in others. Recognising both the strengths and the risks is essential if the community is to stay healthy, motivated and supported," he said."

""Though the present study does not prove cause and effect, a separate published study from the same programme found that many multi-marathoners scored as introverted and emotionally unstable," said Dr Lundy."

Ireland features a high rate of multi-marathon runners. A survey of 576 multi-marathoners from 22 countries across six continents found participants averaged 146 marathons and had a mean age of 54. A small percentage reported slightly higher levels of depression and anxiety than the general population; about 8% fell into a high-risk category for severe depression and anxiety above World Health Organization norms, while most scores remained below diagnostic thresholds for mental disorder. Women recorded higher depression scores than men, and older men showed notably lower anxiety. Long-distance running appears to build resilience for some and increase vulnerability for others; for some runners the habit serves more as a coping mechanism than a joy. A separate published finding noted many multi-marathoners scored as introverted and emotionally unstable, which may help explain elevated symptoms in a subgroup.

Read at Irish Independent