Physical activity and mental health of school-aged children and adolescents: A rapid review

Mental health problems among children and young people are recognised as major threats to their well-being, and are associated with significant costs to them and to wider society. This study examined the evidence regarding the effectiveness of physical activity as a nonmedicinal treatment for mental health concerns among school-aged children and young people. Using a rapid reviewing methodology, which is a shortened form of systematic reviewing, it identified 16 suitable papers. The evidence gathered suggests that school-based physical activity has an important role to play in protecting young people from mental illness, and has the potential to save lives through helping to reduce feelings of hopelessness, suicide and self-harm. Social interactions and resilience are particularly important, and could be supported through a provision of appropriately devised physical activities, and especially team sports. Physical activity is especially valuable for girls in combatting mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Activity selection deserves serious consideration, as inappropriate provision can worsen, rather than help, psychological problems.