Physical exercise for symptoms of stress and anxiety during the pandemic

Abstract

Mental illnesses are a global priority given the economic burden they represent. The epidemiological transition has led to the multimorbidity of non-communicable chronic diseases and survival with disability. Increasing physical activity has been recommended to reduce levels of stress and anxiety, and although studies have shown that exercise is a protective factor against mental disorders, its effects as a coping mechanism in the current situation are not well understood. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the effects of physical exercise on perceived stress and anxiety symptoms in individuals of different ages during the COVID-19 confinement in the Colombian Caribbean region. A cross-sectional study was conducted with individuals aged 18 to 70 from various regions, using non-probabilistic snowball sampling with a sample of 504 participants. GPAC questionnaires, the Stress Appreciation Scale, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were administered. Results indicated that women reported higher levels of anxiety perception, while perceived stress levels were low overall. A significant proportion engaged in physical activity to mitigate stress and anxiety symptoms. In conclusion, there was a low perception of stress and high anxiety levels during the COVID-19 confinement. Physical activity, use of social networks, and support groups were the most employed strategies for coping with stress and anxiety symptoms