Multidimensional Impact of Regular Physical Activity on Adolescent Mental Health, Integrating Neurobiological and Psychosocial Mechanisms
Exercise Reduces Depression and Anxiety in Youth
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69750/dmls.01.07.060Keywords:
Physical activity, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, neuroplasticity, neurotransmitters, exercise intervention, cognitive performance, psychosocial mechanismsAbstract
Background: Frequent exercise promotes social connection, increases neuroplasticity, and regulates neurotransmitters to enhance teenage mental health by lowering anxiety, improving depression, and improving cognitive performance.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of exercise on mental health status among youths aged 12–18 in terms of depression, anxiety, and self-esteem.
Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional survey design whereby 300 adolescents were selected and divided into control group and the special intervention group. The structured physical activities were 3 times per week for 12 months for the subjects in the intervention group. Physical Activity, Mental Health, Neurobiological and Psychosocial Parameters were measured regularly and collected raw data were represented through SPSS version 26.0 by applying t-tests analyses. p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Depression scores were significantly reduced among adolescents in the intervention group which stood at 8.4 points less than those in the control group (p<0. 01). Also, self esteem increased by 12 percent in the intervention group while only 3% for the control group, p= 0.02 The existence of a positive connection between PA and better mental health was consistent even when statistical control was made for covariates.
Conclusion: Physical exercise is proven to have a positive effect and to decrease the level of depression and anxiety in adolescents and to increase self-esteem. These results therefore support the recommendation of physical activity in mental health care approaches for this age bracket.
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