Physical activity as a potential protective factor against depressive and anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents: a narrative review

Abstract

Background. Depressive and anxiety disorders are major public health challenges among children and adolescents. Identifying accessible protective factors is essential for youth mental health promotion. Aim. To synthesize evidence (2019–2026) on physical activity (PA) as a protective factor against depression and anxiety in pediatric populations. Material and methods. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, covering studies published between 2019 and 2026 on physical activity, exercise, and mental health outcomes in children and adolescents. Results. Regular PA was consistently associated with lower depressive and anxiety symptoms. Moderate activity showed the most favorable outcomes, whereas the association between PA volume and mental health appeared non-linear. Team sports were associated with better psychological outcomes than individual sports, and PA interventions were particularly beneficial for psychologically vulnerable youth. Neurobiological mechanisms, including BDNF-related adaptations, remain under investigation. Conclusions. PA is an important non-pharmacological strategy for preventing and supporting the management of depressive and anxiety symptoms in youth. Future research should prioritize individualized approaches integrating PA within 24-hour movement frameworks.