取名切(原标题：Study finds links between childhood sports and lower levels of adult depression新标题：Childhood sports linked to decreased risk of adult depression study)
Childhood sports linked to decreased risk of adult depression study
Childhood sports are seen by many parents as a great way to keep their kids active, but new research suggests that the benefits could extend well beyond just physical fitness. According to a study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, children who participate in organized sports are less likely to develop depression as adults.
The Study
To arrive at this conclusion, researchers examined data from over 10,000 participants in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. The participants were between the ages of 12 and 18 when the study began, and they were followed up with for 20 years. The study tracked the participants' levels of physical activity, including organized sports participation, and assessed their mental health status during adulthood.
The Results
The study found that individuals who participated in sports as children were 22% less likely to develop depression as adults. Additionally, those who were involved in sports for longer periods of time saw even greater reductions in their risk of depression. The study's authors suggest that the benefits of sports participation could be related to the social connections and sense of belonging that athletes often experience.
The Implications
These findings have important implications for parents, coaches, and policymakers. Encouraging children to participate in sports not only promotes physical health but also appears to have long-term mental health benefits. It is important to note, however, that the study only established a correlation between sports participation and decreased risk of depression, and it cannot prove that sports directly cause the decrease. There could be other factors that influence the development of depression that weren't accounted for in the study.
The Bottom Line
The study provides strong evidence that childhood sports participation is associated with a decreased risk of depression in adulthood. While it may not be a guarantee of good mental health, parents and coaches can take comfort in knowing that they are providing their children with opportunities to build lasting social connections and healthy habits. By promoting sports participation, we can potentially help to prevent depression and other mental health issues later in life.