Mental Health
Active Children 'Feel Happier' But New Survey Shows Downward Trend
A recent report reveals a concerning trend in the mental well-being of active children.
A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body
The ancient Romans believed in a direct connection between mental and physical health, encapsulated in the phrase "Mens sana in corpore sano." This belief remains relevant today, as demonstrated by a new report released for Mental Health Awareness Week. The report, "Understanding the Impact of Movement on the Nation's Mental Health and Wellbeing," explores how physical activity affects mental wellness.
Report Highlights
The latest Active Lives report presents a mixed picture of the relationship between physical activity and mental strength. While there is a well-established link between activity levels and mental well-being, recent data shows a decline in mental health indicators, influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. These factors have resulted in a general drop in mental well-being scores since 2016-17, particularly in areas of happiness and life worthwhileness.
The data indicates that poor mental well-being disproportionately affects physically inactive people, especially younger adults (16-34), women, non-binary members of the demographic, people with disabilities, specific ethnic groups, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Despite 25% of adults strongly agreeing on the importance of exercise for mental health, 11% do not engage in physical activity for this purpose.
Trends Among Children and Young People
The Active Lives Children and Young People Survey shows that active children tend to feel happier and more resilient. However, there has been a long-term decline in average mental well-being scores for secondary school children compared to the 2017-18 survey. This decline is more pronounced in younger secondary school children (Years 7-8), while older children (Years 9-11) have shown some recovery in the past year.
The State of the Youth Nation survey, which included approximately 1,000 young people aged 16-24, found that 62% agreed that physical activity supports their mental health. This view is more common among young women than young men.
Working Together for Better Results
The evidence underscores the importance of physical activity for mental and physical health. Raising awareness and improving public messaging about the benefits of movement are essential steps. Collaboration across sectors, connecting with the health system, understanding barriers to activity, and advocating for supportive policies are crucial actions needed to promote an active lifestyle and improve mental health outcomes.
The Romans were right about the benefits of physical activity, and modern evidence supports their belief. It is now time to work together to ensure everyone understands and can benefit from an active lifestyle.
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