TURNING off the TV can make you much happier, scientists say.
They reckon every extra hour spent watching each day increases the risk of depression by five per cent.
And they said sedentary behaviour can hit mental health as it reduces time spent with family and friends.
A lack of exercise can also increase swelling in the brain, which has been linked to depression.
The study of 221,599 people by Fudan University in Shanghai found those who watched the most TV were 26 per cent more likely to feel down than those who watched the least.
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The risk was 42 per cent higher for those who spent most time sitting, known as sedentary behaviour.
The sharpest increase came past eight hours of sitting per day.
Dr Na He said depression “can be avoided by changes in lifestyle behaviour”.
Another study found acts of kindness could stave off depression. Ohio State University trials on 122 people found selfless acts boosted life satisfaction and reduced negative feelings.
Dr David Cregg said: “Social connection is most strongly associated with well-being.
"Acts of kindness seems to be one of the best ways to promote those connections.”