Association of physical activity domains with negative mental health among schoolchildren in a city of Western Amazon

Negative mental health, operationalized here as symptoms anxiety, depression, and stress, is a critical adolescent challenge, particularly in understand regions like the Western Amazon. This study examined associations between physical activity (PA) domains (leisure, commuting, and school) and these symptoms. A cross-sectional study ( n = 349) of students aged 10–17 years utilized the DASS-21 and validated PA questionnaires. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression adjusted for sociodemographic variables. High-volume active commuting (⩾150 minutes/week) was significantly associated with increased anxiety ( p = 0.011) and depression ( p = 0.001) scores. Conversely, moderate leisure-time PA (1–299 min/week) exerted a protective effect against depression ( p = 0.012). No significant associations emerged for school Physical Education or stress. The PA–mental health relationship is context-dependent. While leisure activity is beneficial, high-volume active commuting (⩾150 minutes/week) in hostile environments may exacerbate psychological distress; however, given the cross-sectional design, these findings reflect associations rather than causal effects. Public health strategies should prioritize safer environments for active leisure and curricular reforms.