University students experiencing mental health challenges may benefit from physical activity, but structured exercise programs remain underused within university mental health services. The University of Western Australia examined 93 students participating in ‘Stride’, a 12-week, on-campus exercise program for students experiencing mental distress. Students were referred through university support services or health professionals and participated in weekly supported exercise sessions. Across the program, depressive symptoms decreased, while self-esteem and perceived physical health improved. Students who reported greater enjoyment of exercise also experienced better mental and physical health outcomes. Universities can strengthen student wellbeing by providing accessible, supported physical activity opportunities and, importantly, designing programs around activities students enjoy. This provides a practical model for integrating physical activity directly into campus mental health and wellbeing services.
Citation: Jeftic, I., Jackson, B., Rebar, A., et al. Exercise enjoyment and depressive symptoms for university students in a mental health service: An intensive repeated measures study. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 2026. (link)
