Physical activity and mental health: Does physical disability affect their association?

Though the positive association between physical activity (PA) and mental health is well established, this relationship is mixed among those with physical disabilities (PDs). Exploration of potential mediating (e.g. anxiety sensitivity; AS) and moderating (e.g. disability status) factors is needed to understand these inconsistencies. This study investigated (a) the moderating role of PD on the association between PA and anxiety and depression symptoms and (b) the mediating role of AS in this association. Participants (N = 231) who identified as someone with an acquired disability, a congenital disability, or no disability completed a survey including measures of PA, AS, anxiety, and depression. Results showed a significant moderating role for disability. Furthermore, there were significant differences between disability groups in the mediating role of AS in this association. The results emphasize the complex interplay between PA and anxiety and depression and how the association may be impacted by PD.