Research: Different Exercise, Better Student Mental Health

Depression, anxiety and stress are common among university students, highlighting the need for accessible strategies that support mental health alongside existing services. Researchers conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis of 25 international randomised controlled trials involving 2,127 university students to compare different forms of exercise. Overall, exercise significantly reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Mind–body activities such as yoga and tai chi, together with aerobic exercise, showed the most consistent benefits for depression; mind–body exercise showed promising benefits for anxiety, while aerobic exercise had the strongest comparative effect on stress. Sessions of 30–59 minutes were commonly associated with improved depression and anxiety outcomes. While the authors caution that the evidence varied considerably between studies, the findings support universities providing diverse, accessible exercise opportunities as part of campus mental health strategies, allowing students to engage in forms of movement suited to their needs and preferences.

Citation: Zhao, Z., Li, T., Lai, H., & Yang, R. Comparative effects of exercise modalities on depression, anxiety, and stress in university students: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Frontiers in Public Health, 2026. (link)