“The Impact of Regular Exercise on Mental Health”

Abstract This article explores the relationship between regular physical exercise and mental health outcomes, with a specific focus on depression, anxiety, and stress. Recognizing the growing prevalence of mental health disorders globally, the study emphasizes the role of exercise as a cost-effective, accessible, and non-pharmacological strategy. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed with a sample of 50 participants, equally divided between sportspersons and non-exercisers. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) was administered to measure psychological outcomes. Descriptive results showed that sportspersons consistently reported lower scores across all three domains. However, independent-samples t-tests indicated that these differences did not reach statistical significance, likely due to modest sample size. Effect sizes suggested practical significance, particularly in stress and depression reduction. These findings align with existing literature that identifies exercise as a buffer against psychological distress. The article discusses the theoretical mechanisms underlying these benefits, including neurobiological, psychological, and social pathways. It also highlights limitations of the present study and calls for larger, longitudinal, and experimental research to establish causality. The implications for clinical practice, public health, and education policy underscore the potential of exercise as a sustainable approach to improving mental health and resilience. Keywords: Exercise, Mental health, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, DASS-21, University students, psychological resilience