Physical activity as recovery resource for mental health in young people

Mental health problems among young people are a global public health challenge. Short- and long-term adverse ramifications include impaired development, compromised educational attainments, mental ill-being and even mortality. Lifestyle behaviours have been recognised as feasible and pragmatic strategies for improving mental health, and this chapter will discuss potential benefits of physical activity for the prevention of and recovery from mental health problems in young people. Physical activity can have a strong and positive influence including improved self-esteem and cognitive performance, as well as reduced symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and attention deficit conditions. This chapter will also review hypothesised neurobiological, psychosocial, and behavioural pathways by which physical activity promotes mental well-being and recovery. The rapidly increasing integration of screens in everyday experience underlines the challenge of achieving a healthy balance with lifestyle behaviours. The chapter will include an overview of physical activity promotion to optimise mental well-being and recovery in young people.