Calay News
We all know that a sedentary lifestyle can have a negative impact on our physical health, but a new study has shown that a lack of exercise can also affect mental health later in life, particularly in teenagers. The study, conducted at University College London and published in Lancet Psychiatry, found that teenagers who were not physically active between the ages of 12 and 16 had a higher chance of developing depressive symptoms at age 18 and beyond.
This is not the first study to link a lack of exercise in childhood to negative health outcomes in adulthood. Past studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle can lead to an increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and overall mortality. However, the relationship between sedentary behavior in adolescents and future mental health problems has been less studied.
The decline of play and social interaction among children has also been linked to an increase in mental health issues. Over the past half century, children’s free play with other children has sharply decreased in the United States and other developed nations. At the same time, anxiety, depression, suicide, feelings of helplessness, and narcissism have increased sharply in children, adolescents, and young adults. Play, especially social play with other children, is crucial for healthy psychological development as it helps children acquire the social and emotional skills that are essential for healthy psychological development.
Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that kids who play team sports are less likely to have mental health issues. The study showed that participation in team sports was associated with a lower risk of depression and anxiety among adolescents. This is because playing sports helps children develop self-esteem, social skills, and coping mechanisms that can help them deal with stress and anxiety.
The importance of physical activity and play for children’s mental health cannot be overstated. Parents and caregivers should encourage children to be physically active and engage in play, particularly social play with other children. Participation in team sports can also be beneficial for mental health. These measures can help promote healthy psychological development and prevent mental health issues later in life.
