Undergraduate Physical Activity and Depressive Symptoms: A National Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of college students' physical activity and gender on depressive and suicidal symptoms. METHOD: The National College Health Assessment survey was administered to college students nationwide. Data were analyzed with 4x2 ANOVAs and Games-Howell post hoc tests when appropriate. RESULTS: More frequent physical activity related to less frequent depressive symptoms and consideration of suicide, but not with attempted suicide. Males reported depressive symptoms less frequently than did females. CONCLUSION: Depression research has implications for an increasingly sedentary college population. Institutions should provide increased access and knowledge pertaining to emotional health and psychological benefits through physical activity.