Abstract

Introduction: Regular exercise has garnered recognition for its significant impact on both physical and mental well-being. While its benefits for physical health are well-established, its role in promoting mental health, including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, is increasingly acknowledged. Mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, represent a substantial global burden, necessitating effective and accessible interventions. Exercise emerges as a promising strategy, offering cost-effective and low-risk benefits. Despite evidence supporting its mental health benefits, questions regarding optimal exercise parameters and mechanisms underlying its effects remain. This study aims to explore the effects of regular exercise on mood, anxiety levels, and overall mental well-being, contributing to a deeper understanding of the relationship between exercise and mental health. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial recruited 100 participants aged > 18 years, randomly assigned to either an exercise intervention group (n=50) or a control group (n=50). Baseline characteristics, mood states, and anxiety levels were assessed using validated instruments. Descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, non-parametric equivalents, and multiple regression analyses were employed for data analysis. Results: Participants exhibited moderate levels of physical activity and anxiety at baseline. The exercise intervention group showed significant improvements in mood and reductions in anxiety postintervention, while the control group did not exhibit significant changes. Exercise frequency and duration were significant predictors of mood outcomes, with higher frequency and longer duration associated with greater improvements. Exercise duration demonstrated a significant negative association with anxiety levels. Conclusion: This study highlights the beneficial effects of regular exercise on mood and anxiety levels, emphasizing the importance of incorporating physical activity into mental health interventions. Further research is warranted to deepen understanding and inform evidence-based interventions for individuals with mood and anxiety disorders.

Description

Regular exercise has long been recognized as a cornerstone of physical health, but its profound impact on mental well-being is increasingly gaining attention. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving mood and overall psychological resilience, the benefits of exercise extend far beyond the confines of the gym.[1] As mental health issues continue to rise globally, understanding the relationship between exercise and mental well-being becomes paramount. This study aims to explore the effects of regular exercise on mood, anxiety levels, and overall mental well-being, shedding light on its potential as a powerful tool in promoting mental health.[2] Mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, represent a significant public health concern worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability globally, with over 264 million people affected. Anxiety disorders are also prevalent, affecting approximately 284 million individuals.[1,2] These conditions not only diminish individual quality of life but also pose substantial economic burdens on societies. Despite the availability of various treatments, including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, the efficacy of these interventions can be limited, and they may carry undesirable side effects. Furthermore, access to mental health services remains unequal, with many individuals unable to receive adequate care due to various barriers, including cost, stigma, and availability of services.[3,4] In contrast, exercise presents a promising avenue for enhancing mental well-being that is costeffective, accessible, and free from adverse side effects. Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive effects of exercise on mental health outcomes, including reductions in symptoms of anxiety and depression and improvements in mood and overall psychological well-being.[5] Exercise is thought to exert its beneficial effects through various mechanisms, including the release of endorphins, neurotransmitter modulation, stress reduction, and enhancement of self-esteem and self-efficacy. Despite the wealth of evidence supporting the mental health benefits of exercise, several questions remain unanswered. For instance, the optimal type, duration, and intensity of exercise for maximizing mental health outcomes have yet to be fully elucidated. Additionally, the mechanisms underlying the observed effects of exercise on mental well-being warrant further investigation.[6] By systematically examining the effects of regular exercise on mood, anxiety levels, and overall mental well-being, this study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between physical activity and mental health. Findings from this research may inform the development of evidence-based interventions aimed at harnessing the therapeutic potential of exercise for promoting mental well-being and preventing and treating mental health disorders. Ultimately, by elucidating the role of exercise in mental health, this study has the potential to improve the lives of millions worldwide