Impact of Physical Activity on Mental Health among College-Going Students

This study explores the effect of regular physical activity on mental health among college-going male students. A total of 25 participants, aged 18 to 25, were selected from different colleges in Gwalior. Over a period of six weeks, they participated in a structured physical activity program consisting of jogging, stretching, and aerobic exercises. To assess their mental health, two standard tools—DASS-21 (for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress) and WHO-5 Well-being Index—were used before and after the intervention. The results showed a significant improvement in mental health parameters. Depression, anxiety, and stress levels decreased, while emotional well-being improved. These findings support the importance of including regular physical activity in student routines to promote mental wellness in a simple, accessible, and non-medical way.