Adolescence is a crucial stage of human development. During this unstable period, teenagers experience many physical, emotional and social changes that can be extremely provocative. It is an era of identity, increased exposure to external pressures and search for autonomy. Without proper support, this can get an important emotional tax.
Emotional instability increases the risk of developing psychological disorders and According to the World Health Organization (WHO)One in seven young people aged 10-19 is suffering from such a situation. This is 15% of the 1.3 billion adolescents worldwide – about one sixth of the world population.
Psychological disorders are among the main causes of illness and disability in this population group. Suicide is the Tuesday leading cause of death between young people aged 15-29A worrying statistical element that highlights the urgent need to follow a preventive approach to mental health in the early stages of life.
Habits that prevent mental illness
Depression and anxiety It is one of the most common adolescent disorders. They share some symptoms and, in many cases, can be treated in a similar way, including through a series of existing psychological therapies and drug -based approaches.
In terms of prevention, habits can make a world of difference. Avoiding drugs, tobacco and alcohol, sinking yourself into a healthy social environment and staying active are some of who is Current guidelines for mental health. International bodies such as the who also emphasize the beneficial effects of physical activity in enhancing physical, psychological and social prosperity.
However, much of the world population does not meet these recommendations and this includes the newest members of society. During the period from 2016 to 2022, over 80% of 11-17 years did not reach its target 60 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity per day.
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Many habits change during adolescence, including sport and exercise practice, which often decreases when teenagers move to secondary education.
Four conclusions supported by research
Recent studies They confirmed the importance of avoiding a sedentary lifestyle in improving mental health. We can group these results in four main conclusions:
Inactive adolescents face greater symptoms of depression and anxiety
Young people who do not regularly suffer from the most part negative emotional symptoms (Sadness, discouragement, nervousness and anxiety). This is supported by Two recent studies of more than 10,000 adolescents in Spain.
Regular movement not only strengthens the body but also protects the mind. Is estimated to be active teenagers 20-30% less They are likely to have depressive symptoms compared to their sedentary peers.
The higher the level of physical activity and performance, the milder the symptoms.
The positive impact of sport on mental health depends not only on the realization of sport but also on its intensity and frequency. Inactive teenagers are up to four times more likely to suffer from moderate or severe depressive symptoms compared to high performance athletes.
People in this age group who train more hours a week and participate in competitions, especially at national or international level, have better mood situations and lower levels of stress.
Although the type of sport does not seem to make a big difference, the commitment and the regularity with which it is exercised.
The more active and structured a teenager’s athletic lifestyle is, the greater the benefits of their mental health, especially if sport is a normal and motivation part of their daily lives.
Teenage girls suffer more
Compared to boys, teenage girls tend to experience more symptoms associated with stress and depression, especially as adolescence is evolving.
This difference becomes more intense than the age of 14 or 15, coinciding with the later stages of adolescence. Some studies show that teenage girls are 50-70% They are more likely to have depressive symptoms than their men’s peers.
The reasons are probably related to hormonal, social and cultural transformations. Estrogen levels, increased aesthetic pressure, comparison with others on social networks, bullying and reduced perception of physical ability contribute to this emotional vulnerability.
It has also been observed that adolescent girls tend to stick to negative thoughts by going again and again their concerns to a Mental state known as Rumination. This can intensify stress and depressive symptoms.
Therefore, it is especially important to promote sport between teenage girls, helping them feel safe, supported and motivated in positive and healthy environments.
There are long -term benefits
Finally, except for more immediate results, a Recent systematic review It suggests that children who are involved in physical recreational exercise during childhood and adolescence can face long -term health and behavior benefits.
Given these four conclusions, it is important that the principles, coaches and families, as well as young people themselves, understand that regular and intense movement is not only good for the body – it benefits and protects the mind. Encouragement is vital to building a healthier, more balanced future for young people.
