Open Access

ARTICLE

Can Physical Activities Suppress Negative Impact of Stress on the Mental Health of Adolescents?

by Tena Velki^*

Faculty of Education, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, 31000, Croatia

* Corresponding Author: Tena Velki. Email:

International Journal of Mental Health Promotion 2024, 26(3), 211-219. https://doi.org/10.32604/ijmhp.2024.047950

Received 23 November 2023; Accepted 22 February 2024; Issue published 08 April 2024

Abstract

Early adolescence is a crucial developmental phase marked by significant physical, cognitive, and socioemotional changes. While stress is widely recognized as a notable risk factor during this period, not all individuals experiencing stress concurrently manifest compromised mental health. The association between stress and mental health outcomes is influenced by individual differences in characteristics and coping strategies. This study’s purpose was to assess the negative impact of stress on mental health, specifically focusing on symptoms of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. Additionally, the research investigates whether different levels of physical activity can suppress the negative effects of stress. A total of 212 upper elementary school students (52.8% girls and 47.2% boys) from rural and urban areas voluntarily participated in the research. Participants online self-assessed on several measures: The Young Person’s CORE, Children’s Anxiety Scale, Children’s Depression Inventory, School Stress Intensity Scale for Students, and Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children. The results revealed a significant increase in adolescents experiencing impaired mental health. More than two-thirds (67.5%) of students self-assessed significant symptoms of depression, additionally, 57.5% of them had significant symptoms of psychological distress, and 27.8% had significant symptoms of anxiety. Stress demonstrated a significant direct negative effect, leading to increased symptoms of anxiety (t = 5.35, p = 0.00) and psychological distress (t = 4.29, p = 0.00); however, there was no significant influence on depression (t = 1.33, p = 0.18)). Regarding regular physical activity, a significant moderating effect was identified, effectively suppressing the negative impact of stress on anxiety (F = 3.88_(2,206); p = 0.02). In contrast, no significant moderation effect of physical activity was found for symptoms of depression (F = 1.45_(2,206); p = 0.24) and psychological distress (F = 1.14_(2,206); p = 0.32), highlighting a complex and intricate association between physical activity and various mental health outcomes. In conclusion, the practical implications of this study emphasize the importance of creating environments that reduce stressors for adolescents and promote regular physical activity as a means of fostering positive mental health outcomes.

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Keywords

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