Adolescent mental health interventions: a narrative review of the positive effects of physical activity and implementation strategies

Introduction: Adolescent mental health is a growing global concern, with high prevalence of anxiety and depression and exacerbation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Physical activity (PA) is known to improve physical health and may also enhance mental health (e.g., reducing anxiety/depression, boosting self-esteem, and improving social skills). Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus with keywords related to adolescent mental health and physical activity. Peer-reviewed studies involving adolescents and reporting mental health outcomes of PA were included; 61 articles met criteria. Results and conclusion: Aerobic exercise improves mood and cognitive function; strength training reduces depressive symptoms and enhances self-efficacy; team sports improve social skills and sense of belonging and are associated with fewer mental health difficulties; mind-body practices (yoga, tai chi) improve stress management and emotional regulation. Potential risks include exercise addiction, body image/eating disorders, and withdrawal effects when PA ceases. Implementation strategies recommended for schools and communities include integrating PA into curricula, offering diverse activities, training coaches/teachers (including mental health literacy), encouraging family/community involvement, and routine monitoring and evaluation. Future work should address sample diversity, methodological rigor (including RCTs), precise control/reporting of PA dose and type, and long-term effects.

Zhaojin Li, Jie Li, Jianda Kong, Zhilin Li, Rui Wang, Fugao Jiang