Poster Session 6, 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM: Concourse [B5]

Presenter: Patricia Marie Howk

Faculty Sponsor: Edna Yamasaki Patrikiou

School: UMass Amherst

Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

ABSTRACT

Young adulthood (approximately 18–26 years) represents a critical developmental period that includes heightened vulnerability to anxiety and depressive disorders. Exercise is an accessible, non-pharmacological adjunct to traditional mental health treatments; however, clarity is needed regarding its effectiveness and optimal prescription within young adult populations. This review examines exercise as a stand-alone or adjunctive intervention for anxiety and depression in young adults. Exercise exposures ranged from acute single-bout sessions to structured 4–12 week programs, as well as habitual physical activity patterns assessed through validated self-report and objective measures. Mental health outcomes were measured using standardized instruments. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise performed 2–4 times per week over 6–12 weeks demonstrated the strongest and most replicable antidepressant effects. Acute exercise produced immediate reductions in state anxiety of approximately 20–30%, particularly among individuals with elevated baseline symptoms. Resistance training and mind–body or group-based modalities further enhanced outcomes in some contexts. Sedentary behavior independently increased risk for depressive symptoms, while changing 30–60 minutes per day to physical activity reduced both anxiety and depression risk. Exercise effects are strongest and most consistent for depression and are optimized through sustained moderate-intensity aerobic programs. Exercise showed a smaller, more variable effect on anxiety symptoms. When individualized and implemented alongside standard care, exercise provides a reasonable strategy to reduce psychological symptoms  and promote long-term mental health resilience in young adult populations.