When teenagers play sports, it can have a huge impact on their well-being. Sports help them reduce stress, bond, collaborate, and exercise. Playing sports allows them to build self-esteem and become closer to their peers. Take a look at the top mental benefits of sports for teens.
- Serotonin Production
When teens exercise, they have higher levels of serotonin production. This helps improve mental health, and it stimulates norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter that improves mood.
- Endorphin Release
Physical activity is known to release endorphins, which are chemicals that make people happy. In addition, they reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. As a result, teens are more balanced and feel more relaxed.
- Sports Reduce Suicidal Thoughts
Sports are also known to lower stress and anxiety, and they reduce suicidal behavior in teens. In fact, studies have shown that physical activity can be as effective as antidepressants. In a study, the researchers split the participants into three groups. One took part in an exercise program, one took antidepressants, and the other took medication. They found that the effects of the exercise lasted longer than those from antidepressants.
- Participation in Sports Reduces Substance Abuse by Teens
Studies have shown that when teens participate in sports, they are less likely to abuse substances. They are also less likely to engage in other reckless behaviors.
- Teens Learn Resilience, Empathy, Confidence, and Empowerment
When teens play sports, they build character. They learn resilience in the face of defeat. They learn how to keep trying to get better. They also learn empathy as they watch teammates have successes and failures. They develop confidence, and they feel empowered. These are all characteristics that will help them develop into stronger adults.
- They Improve Their Sleep Patterns
Another huge benefit of playing sports is that they help teens improve their sleep patterns. This has a whole host of further health benefits. When teens get enough sleep, they are less stressed and do better in school. They tend to get along better with others, and they are happier.
- They Become Good Teammates
Working with others on a team is another huge benefit of playing sports. When teens learn how to work together toward common goals, they are better prepared for teamwork and collaboration in their jobs later in life.