Oxford University’s research – one of the largest ever surveys of depression – revealed that only one in six people are receiving the drugs they need. It also found GPs can be 'squeamish' about prescribing anti-depressants, when they would readily prescribe drugs for other illnesses.

However, even though research has shown physical activity can be as effective as drugs in treating mild to moderate depression, few GPs are prescribing exercise.

Like obesity and inactivity, mental illness is affecting ever increasing numbers of people. Shockingly, the average age of onset for depression is now 14, compared to 45 in the 1960s and there was a 116 per cent rise in young people talking about suicide during Childline UK counselling sessions in 2013/14, when compared to 2010/11.

What can the fitness industry do to turn the medical sector on to exercise? Does it need direction from the highest level, or could operators create their own pathways? Many members will be suffering from mental illness and already self-medicating with exercise, but for those who have more severe challenges that impact motivation and confidence, are operators offering the right environment and programmes?

Considering that some of those suffering from severe depression are at risk of suicide, is the industry ready to work with this vulnerable group? We ask the experts…