Relationships between vigorous physical activity and psychological complaints in adolescents: findings from 240,951...

This cross-sectional study explores the association between vigorous physical activity (VPA) and psychological complaints in adolescents. While psychological complaints are a crucial aspect of adolescent development, the role of VPA in relation to specific complaints remains unclear, as existing evidence is mixed and varies by symptom type.

Data were drawn from the 2017/2018 wave of the Health Behaviors in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey, comprising 240,951 students aged 11, 13, and 15 years randomly selected from participating countries. Psychological complaints were assessed using four self-reported items from the HBSC Symptom Checklist in the six months prior to data collection: feeling low, irritability, nervousness, and sleep difficulties. VPA frequency was measured using a single-item question regarding out-of-breath or sweaty activity during free time. Statistical analyses were performed using binary logistic regression, with results reported as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Compared to those reporting never engaging in VPA, daily VPA was associated with a 22% higher likelihood of feeling low (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.17-1.27, p < 0.001), with similar increases for 4-6 times/week (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.11-1.19, p < 0.001) and 2-3 times/week (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.06-1.14, p < 0.001). Daily VPA was also associated with slightly higher odds of irritability (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02-1.10, p = 0.01). In contrast, daily VPA was linked to a 9% reduction in nervousness (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.88-0.95, p < 0.001), with consistent results at lower frequencies. No significant association was observed between daily VPA and sleep difficulties (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.98-1.06, p = 0.37).

This study reveals a heterogeneous pattern of associations between VPA and adolescent psychological complaints. While higher VPA frequency appears to reduce nervousness, it may be linked to increased risks of low mood and irritability. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causality and underlying mechanisms.