The detrimental effects poor mental health has on society come in many forms, such as depression, anxiety and other disorders. There are many ways to ensure that these health concerns don’t get out of hand, and one of the most successful methods to do so is through participating in sports. Sports can be extremely beneficial for the mental health of teenagers, not only helping them solve emotional problems but building bonds with other teenagers and helping them strive in this complicated society.
Many teenagers have played sports at some point in their lives, which can prepare them for dealing with issues relating to mental health, such as making friends or managing a busy schedule later in life. When I was younger, I played soccer every week and it connected me with other kids my age. That was all I needed to get through the week because it kept me busy and happily occupied. According to a study comparing athletes to non-athletes, people who play sports have 17% less social difficulties compared to those who don’t play sports. Therefore, being active with teammates can actually help antisocial kids branch out and find other people they can rely on.
Not only can sports help kids make friends, but they also help reduce anxiety and depression. A study comparing sports to other ways of dealing with conditions shows that playing a sport does not have the shame that some people believe to be attached to taking antidepressants, and can be more beneficial than other methods of dealing with anxiety and depression. Although antidepressants do help in some cases, sports are a very beneficial way to spend your time, since they are fun and keep both your mind and body healthy. Keeping your mind healthy is especially important during your teenage years because it is an important period for growing habits crucial for mental well-being. So going outside and playing a sport can not only keep you entertained but can also better equip your mind for dealing with stress.
Some people might believe that because sports take more time out of your schedule, they would cause a stress overload. Although that might be true for some athletes, if someone seriously enjoys playing the sport, they will look forward to playing every week, hanging out with their teammates and creating those bonds. If an athlete truly is happy playing the sport, it can greatly boost their spirits and improve other parts of their life, such as school or personal matters. Sometimes, all a person needs is an escape from their day-to-day life, and playing a sport they enjoy can provide that. Therefore, sports allow people to relieve the pressure and stress they deal with daily.
When considering sports, don’t just think about how they’re beneficial to your physical well-being, but also recognize the positive effects they can have on your mental health. Every time you throw a football, swing a tennis racket or make a three-pointer, realize that while having a good time, you are also improving your mental health, and preparing for your future.
