Regular exercise may offer powerful support for the mental health of youth, according to new research from the University of South Australia cited in an article in The Educator. More than 75% of children and teenagers experience depression or anxiety, according to the article.
The study examined 375 clinical trials involving more than 38,000 young people. When children participated in structured exercise programs, their symptoms of depression and anxiety improved significantly, according to the study.
Specific types of exercise are more effective for different mental health conditions. Anxiety symptoms improved most through low-intensity, resistance exercises — light weights or gentle circuit activities. Depression symptoms showed the greatest improvement through moderate-intensity, mixed-mode, and resistance training, including circuits that combine aerobic and strength programs.
Programs lasting fewer than three months were particularly effective. The biggest improvements in depression symptoms occurred in programs lasting fewer than 12 weeks. This suggests benefits can emerge relatively quickly, especially for children aged 12 and older.
Lead researcher Dr. Ben Singh describes the findings as presenting parents with a non-invasive, low-cost solution to combat poor mental health in children.
Exercise represents an easily accessible strategy that could make a real difference to children’s mental health, he says. People generally understand exercise is good for health and wellbeing, but little evidence previously showed how exercise works for kids or which types might be more effective than others.
“Exercise should be a core part of mental health care for children and teens, whether at school, in the community, or clinical settings,” says senior researcher Carol Maher. “Short, structured programs that include strength training or a mix of activities seem especially promising, but simply exercising, even for short amounts of time will deliver benefits.”
Expensive gym memberships or training programs are not necessary. Play-based activities, games and sport all represent valuable forms of movement that can support mental wellbeing, she says.
“The key message is simple: get active and keep active,” Maher says. “Even short bursts of movement can make a real difference to a child’s mental health and wellbeing – especially for those who are struggling.”
The Educator
