Teen Depression: Movement as the Best Therapy

Adolescent depression is a major global health concern. According to the WHO, approximately 14% of young people suffer from mental disorders, with depression being the second leading cause of morbidity in this age group. This issue was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to increased feelings of isolation, sadness, and anxiety. The relationship between lifestyle and mental health is being increasingly studied, particularly the impact of physical activity as a non-pharmacological approach to managing depressive symptoms.

Physical activity has a positive effect by regulating hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, sleep, and motivation. It also provides social and psychological benefits, enhancing self-esteem and fostering interpersonal connections. Despite these clear advantages, many adolescents remain sedentary, which worsens the risk of depression.

This review explores recent scientific evidence on the impact of physical activity in reducing depressive symptoms among young people.  

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Physical Activity: The Key to Combating Depression?

The research is based on 24 studies of moderate to high quality, including longitudinal and cross-sectional surveys. Validated tools (PHQ-9, CES-D) were used to assess the severity of depressive symptoms. Participants, aged 10 to 19 years, were analyzed based on their level of physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and mental health indicators.

The findings show that regular physical activity significantly reduces depressive symptoms. Adolescents participating in team sports or engaging in moderate physical activity demonstrate improved mental health. Self-esteem, enhanced through physical activity, plays a crucial role as a mediator: the higher the self-esteem, the lower the depressive symptoms.

However, excessive physical activity can have negative effects, including an increased risk of injuries or burnout. Adolescents involved in highly competitive sports also reported higher stress levels. Moreover, sedentary behaviors, such as prolonged screen time, substantially diminish the benefits of physical activity on depressive symptoms, emphasizing the importance of balancing movement and rest.  

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Move to Think Better: The Impact of Physical Activity on Mental Health

Adolescent depression is a significant condition, deeply affecting their mental well-being, social development, and quality of life. Sedentary habits exacerbate the disorder, making it harder to manage.

The study aimed not only to explore the impact of physical activity on reducing depressive symptoms but also to highlight the underlying mechanisms, such as improved self-esteem and reduced sedentary behaviors. The findings confirm that regular physical activity plays a positive role in alleviating depressive symptoms.

However, the study reveals several limitations. The effectiveness of physical activity depends on its frequency, intensity, and context. Excessive activity can lead to negative effects, such as stress or injuries. Prolonged screen time reduces the benefits of physical activity. Additionally, data on long-term effects or variations related to gender and culture remain limited.

Future research is needed to better understand these complex interactions. Intervention programs should promote balanced and appropriate physical activity, targeting sedentary behaviors and incorporating accessible and motivating activities for young people. By integrating these strategies into public health policies, it may be possible to reduce the prevalence of depression among adolescents and sustainably improve their mental health.