The role of sport in the development of our children’s mental health

In a context where mental health disorders affect a growing proportion of young people, it is crucial for parents to recognize sport not only as a physical activity, but also as a tool for prevention and psychological support. Statistics show a rise in mental disorders among young people, underscoring the urgent need for action. For example, according to Statistics Canada, the number of Canadians over 15 affected by generalized anxiety disorders doubled between 2012 and 2022. [1]

Fortunately, studies show the beneficial effect of exercise on reducing anxiety and improving mood. This article aims to encourage parents to support their children’s regular exercise, highlighting how moderate physical activity can serve as a cornerstone for their mental well-being, offering them tools to better manage stress and anxiety from an early age.

Engaging in sporting activities offers young athletes considerable benefits for their mental health. Regular practice of sport not only enhances physical fitness, but also acts as a powerful antidote to stress, anxiety and depression. Indeed, a meta-analysis of 159 studies concludes that moderate-intensity physical activity lasting 20 minutes, such as brisk walking, produces a positive psychological effect lasting between two and seven hours. [2] In addition, anxiety is reduced after 20 minutes of physical activity requiring a large muscle mass, such as swimming, running or cycling. [3]

Studies on this subject are numerous and seem to point in the same direction: sport helps maintain positive mental health. For example, just over 80% of Mammen and Faulkner’s 30 studies show an inverse relationship between physical activity and depression. [4]. In addition, 90% of the 30 studies conducted by Byrne and Byrne show the positive impact of regular exercise on various aspects of mental health, such as depression, anxiety and mood. [5]

In addition to the direct benefits for mental health, regular practice of sport also brings a series of indirect benefits that contribute to enhanced psychological well-being. For example, engagement in regular sporting activity is often associated with a better self-image. By developing physical skills and achieving sporting goals, individuals boost their self-esteem and self-confidence, which translates into improved mental health.

What’s more, taking part in sport is often linked to better sleep [6]. Regular exercise can promote better quality sleep, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mood and concentration. Similarly, participation in sporting activities usually offers an opportunity to forge social bonds and develop meaningful interpersonal relationships. These social connections provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, with positive implications for mental health. The indirect benefits of sport on mental health are manifold, and demonstrate the importance of physical activity in promoting overall psychological well-being.

Motivating a young child to take part in physical activity can be facilitated by integrating play and fun into exercise, choosing activities suited to his or her interests, and participating together as a family to reinforce the playful, communal nature of sport. Setting small, achievable goals, celebrating successes, and providing constant encouragement without undue pressure also help to cultivate a positive attitude towards physical activity, which is essential for establishing long-term healthy habits.

In conclusion, sport offers substantial mental health benefits, acting as an antidote to stress and promoting psychological well-being. Nevertheless, to reap the full benefits, a holistic approach is required, combining physical activity with professional support and personalized attention. By integrating sport into our daily lifestyle in a considered and balanced way, we can strengthen our mental health and significantly improve our quality of life.

Sources:
[1] Statistique Canada, Enquête sur la santé mentale et l’accès aux soins, 2022. Statistique Canada, Enquête sur la santé dans les collectivités canadiennes – Santé mentale, 2012. Statistique Canada, Enquête sur la santé dans les collectivités canadiennes : Santé mentale et bien-être, 2002. Consult Table 1 at the following URL: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75-006-x/2023001/article/00011-fra.htm 

[2] Landers, D.M. et Petruzzello, S.J. (1994). The effectiveness of exercise and physical activity in reducing anxiety and reactivity to psychosocial stressors. In H.A. Quinney, L. Gauvin et A.E.T. Wall (dir.), Toward active living. (p.77-82). Human Kinetics Publishers Inc.. Information found via the article at the following URL: https://www.erudit.org/fr/revues/smq/2017-v42-n1-smq03101/1040248ar/

[3] O’Connor, P. J., Raglin, J. S., & Martinsen, E. W. (2000). Physical activity, anxiety and anxiety disorders. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 31(2), 136-155. Information found via the article at the following URL: https://www.erudit.org/fr/revues/smq/2017-v42-n1-smq03101/1040248ar/

[4] Mammen, G. and Faulkner, G. (2013). Physical activity and the prevention of depression : a systematic review of prospective studies. American journal of preventive medicine, 2013. 45(5), 649-657. Information found via the article at the following URL: https://www.erudit.org/fr/revues/smq/2017-v42-n1-smq03101/1040248ar/

[5] Byrne, A. et Byrne, D. G. (1993). The effect of exercise on depression, anxiety, and other mood states : A review. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 37(6), 565-574. Information found via the article at the following URL: https://www.erudit.org/fr/revues/smq/2017-v42-n1-smq03101/1040248ar/

[6] Radio Canada. (2019). 3 effets du sport sur le sommeil consulted at the following URL: https://ici.radio-canada.ca/jeunesse/parents/accueil-parents/document/nouvelles/article/1154322/endorphines-detente-anxiolytique-rythme-circadien