New research conducted in Scotland has unveiled a compelling link between commuting by bike and a reduced likelihood of being prescribed drugs for anxiety or depression, highlighting the mental health benefits of cycling to work. The study, analyzing data from nearly 380,000 individuals aged 16-74, provides robust evidence that cycling contributes to a decreased risk of mental ill-health.Â
Researchers in Edinburgh gathered data from the 2011 Scottish census, combining it with NHS prescription records over the subsequent five years. The participants, residing in Edinburgh or Glasgow within one mile of a cycle path and without mental health prescriptions at the study’s commencement, formed the basis of the investigation.Â
The results indicated a noteworthy 15% decrease in prescriptions for depression or anxiety among those who commuted by bike over the five-year period following 2011 compared to non-cyclists. Interestingly, the mental health benefits were more pronounced in women who chose cycling as their mode of commuting. Dr. Laurie Berrie, part of the research team, explained that the study used the proximity of a cycle path as a factor, allowing for a quasi-randomized controlled trial to compare mental health outcomes between cyclists and non-cyclists with otherwise similar characteristics.Â
The analysis also shed light on the prevalence of cycling as a commuting choice. In Glasgow, a mere 2% of commuters cycled to work, while in Edinburgh, just under 5% opted for cycling. Men were found to be more likely than women to choose cycling as their mode of transportation to work.Â
The research team emphasized the implications of their findings for public health and urban planning. The results underscore the importance of actively promoting cycling and investing in infrastructure to facilitate and encourage more individuals to choose cycling as a commuting option. Professor Chris Dibben noted that not only does cycling contribute to improved mental health, but it also aligns with broader benefits such as reducing carbon emissions, alleviating road congestion, and mitigating air pollution.Â
The study, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, addresses a significant gap in previous research, which often relied on smaller participant numbers and self-reported measures of mental health. By leveraging a substantial dataset and prescription records, this research provides a more robust foundation for understanding the positive impact of cycling on mental well-being.Â
These findings hold significant implications for public health policies and urban planning strategies. Encouraging active travel, particularly through cycling, could emerge as a multifaceted solution to enhance mental health, reduce environmental impact, and address transportation challenges. As cities and communities grapple with issues related to mental health, air quality, and sustainable transportation, investing in cycling infrastructure may prove to be a cost-effective and beneficial avenue for promoting overall well-being.Â
Journal Reference Â
Laurie Berrie et al, Does cycle commuting reduce the risk of mental ill-health? An instrumental variable analysis using distance to nearest cycle path, International Journal of Epidemiology (2024). DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyad153Â
