Physical Activity Interventions for Mental Health Among Youth in South Africa: A Scoping Review

TL;DR

This study reviews how physical activity can help improve mental health among young people in rural South Africa.

Contribution

The study provides a scoping review of physical activity interventions for youth mental health in rural South Africa.

Findings

Participation in organized physical activity is linked to reduced mental health issues in rural South African youth.

School-based, community-based, and charity physical activity programs show promise for mental health support.

Stronger trials and cross-sector policies are needed to enhance the impact of these interventions.

Abstract

Mental health problems are increasing among young people in South Africa due to diverse determinants such as, poverty, social shame, and lack of proper access to health services. Although physical activity is a low-cost and non-medical way to help improve mental health, its effects in rural areas are still not clearly understood. A scoping review was carried out following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. We systematically searched three online databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar) for studies published from 2014 through 2025. Studies met eligibility criteria if they targeted youth aged 14–35 years living in rural South Africa and reported on physical activity interventions designed for mental health. Two reviewers independently carried out data extraction and came up with the overall result. Overall, 42,384 records were identified, of which only 12 studies met all the specified criteria. The findings of the study were that participation in organised forms of physical activity (including school-based aerobic sessions, community-based walking groups, and charity training programmes) was associated with reductions in mental health issues. Even with these issues, the findings show that physical activity can be a useful, efficient, and practical way to support mental health among rural South African youth. To improve the evidence, strong trials, community-based plans, and sessions at schools and clinics are needed. In addition, policy cooperation across health, education, and sports sectors is essential for lasting impact.

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