The mental health benefits of exercise for adults are well known, easing depression and reducing anxiety . Now, emerging research highlights its rising importance for children's well-being. Staying active could be key to safeguarding and enhancing young people's mental health.
Mood-boosting benefits One in seven adolescents worldwide has a mental illness . As a result, parents and health-care providers are increasingly seeking effective prevention strategies. Evidence is accumulating to suggest one surprisingly simple approach: physical fitness .
One recent study reveals even small improvements in fitness were linked to improved teen mental health. When adolescents improved their fitness by just 30 seconds on a running test, their risk of developing anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) dropped by 7%–8%. This suggests something as straightforward as regular exercise could play a crucial role in protecting young people's mental well-being.
For parents and health professionals looking to support adolescent mental health, encouraging participation in team sports could also be an especially effective strategy. A study of more than 17,000 teenagers revealed a powerful link between sports and mental health: teens who participated in sports clubs were 60% less likely to experience depression compared to inactive kids. This suggests team sports offer a unique environment for teens' mental well-being, combining physical activity, social connection .
