New research suggests that being physically active as a child can do more than just set good habits for adult life. Not only does exercise tone the muscles, keep the heart healthy and help to keep excess kilos at bay, a new study has found that being physically active in childhood could protect against depression later in life. Researchers at Deakin University based in Geelong found that people who reported doing less physical activity as a child were 35% more likely to develop depression as an adult compared to people who reported high levels of physical activity in childhood. The researchers found that this association was apparent even after taking adult physical activity levels into account.
Adult Mental Health Finds Keys in Childhood
Deakin University researcher Dr Felice Jacka said, "Childhood is a period of rapid brain development and physical activity in early life may have beneficial effects on the developing brain through its impact on important brain proteins and oxidative stress." Being involved in sport in childhood is known to influence the development of important coping and stress management skills in children and adolescents. It has also been shown to be associated with greater emotional wellbeing in adolescents. Dr Jacka also said, "Low levels of physical activity are linked with lower levels of social support in young adults which may influence risk factors for depression over one's life."
Get Fit, Get Happy
Being involved in a team sport can help children and adolescents' social skills and develop a sense of community, which are essential for our mental health. Exercise is often prescribed as a treatment for depression. Many studies have been conducted that show people who exercise regularly experience fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression that people who don't exercise. Research suggests that regular exercise may increase levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, libido, appetite and other functions. Exercise may also increase endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain with "mood lifting" properties. So it seems it's wise to start kids early on the road to an active life – the benefits of physical exercise keep stacking up.
Originally published on May 19, 2011
