The strategies of exercise intervention for adolescent depression: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Greater Physical Activity is Associated with Lower Rates of Anxiety and Depression Among Autistic and ADHD Youth: National Survey of Children's Health 2016-2020

Data from the National Survey of Children's Health 2016-2020 was used to examine the association between physical activity and anxiety and depression among autistic youth, non-autistic youth with ADHD, and non-autistic non-ADHD youth. There was a significant negative association between physical activity and anxiety among all groups. Reduction in anxiety or depression associated with greater physical activity was at least as large or larger among autistic or nonautistic youth with ADHD than among non-autistic non-ADHD youth. Unfortunately, even autistic youth who were physically active 4 to 7 days a week showed very high rates of anxiety (54.5%) and depression (23.1%). Very high levels of dual diagnosis of anxiety and depression in autistic youth and youth with ADHD also emerged. Findings highlight a need to determine the cause-and-effect relationships among physical activity, anxiety, and depression across groups and to prioritize mental health screenings and support for autistic youth and youth with ADHD.

The influence of lifestyle habits on levels of depression among rural middle school students in Northeastern China

Background

Depression rates among adolescents have risen dramatically over the past decade. Therefore, preventing depression among adolescents is particularly important. Differences in lifestyle habits may play a role in depression.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the influence of living habits on depression levels among rural middle school students in Northeast China and to provide a theoretical basis for developing interventions to reduce depression levels in middle school students.

Methods

A total of 296 middle school students aged 13-15 years from Benxi City, Northeast China completed the anthropometric measurements, Physical Activity Scale-3 (PARS-3), and the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Their average screen time in the most recent week, parents' education level, and monthly family income were collected through a questionnaire.

Results

Females had higher depression scores than males (41.0 ± 6.9 vs. 37.9 ± 8.0). Physical activity (β = -0.38, t = -7.06, P < 0.01), family income (β = -0.20, t = -4.07, P < 0.01), screen time (β = 0.16, t = 3.34, P < 0.01), age (β = 0.15, t = 3.16, P < 0.01), sex (β = -0.13, t = -2.74, P < 0.01), and sleep quality (β = -0.08, t = -1.87, P < 0.01) are important factors related to depression levels.

Conclusion

The preliminary analysis results showed that among middle school students in rural Northeast China, the depression level of females was significantly higher than that of males. Poor quality sleep, low levels of physical activity, low household income, and long screen time were positively associated with depression. Therefore, strengthening physical activity, improving sleep quality, and reducing screen time are of clinical relevance in preventing and reducing depression.