How does physical activity relate to mental health?

How does physical activity relate to mental health?

• A. Physical activity worsens mood.
• B. Only high-intensity exercise affects mental health.
• C. Exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve mood and resilience.
• D. There is no link between activity and mental health.

Answer: (C)

Regular physical activity is linked to better mental health. It can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve mood and resilience. This happens through several pathways: exercise releases feel-good chemicals such as endorphins and neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which help regulate mood; it lowers the body's stress hormones; and it often improves sleep, which supports emotional regulation. Exercise also boosts self-efficacy and provides social support if done in groups, all of which contribute to a steadier mood and greater emotional resilience. Importantly, these benefits show up across a range of intensities—you don’t have to engage in only high-intensity workouts to gain mental health advantages. Even moderate activity, such as brisk walking most days, can help. There is a real, consistent link between being physically active and better mental health, which is why this statement is the best description.

Regular physical activity is linked to better mental health. It can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve mood and resilience. This happens through several pathways: exercise releases feel-good chemicals such as endorphins and neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which help regulate mood; it lowers the body's stress hormones; and it often improves sleep, which supports emotional regulation. Exercise also boosts self-efficacy and provides social support if done in groups, all of which contribute to a steadier mood and greater emotional resilience. Importantly, these benefits show up across a range of intensities—you don’t have to engage in only high-intensity workouts to gain mental health advantages. Even moderate activity, such as brisk walking most days, can help. There is a real, consistent link between being physically active and better mental health, which is why this statement is the best description.