Physical exercise guidance for people with compromised mental health through the Physical Mind app

Introduction: Physical exercises are fundamental tools for preventing and managing chronic degenerative diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. They are also associated with mental health benefits, including reducing anxiety symptoms, increasing self-confidence, and motivating lifestyle changes in individuals with depressive symptoms or diagnosed depression. The objective of this study was to develop an app to assess compromised mental health levels in the population and use physical exercise as a treatment. This methodological study was conducted in four stages: 1) literature review, 2) interaction between the mental health questionnaire and physical training structure, 3) development of the app's interface, and 4) app branding. Results: The app incorporates tools to evaluate and manage users' mental health and physical activity. Using the DASS-21 questionnaire, the app identified that a significant portion of the sample exhibits anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms. Although all participants engage in physical activity, many consider themselves only active or sedentary, suggesting insufficient mental health benefits. Conclusion: The study concludes that unstructured physical activity alone is not enough to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. The app proves to be a practical tool, highlighting the importance of personalized, well-structured exercise programs for improving mental health.