The benefits of staying active and exercising at every stage of life are universally known. However, a growing body of research points to specific benefits for children and adolescents who struggle with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Study author Yu Zang concluded that “physical exercise has a major contribution owing to significant improvement in anxiety and depression, aggressive behaviors, thought and social problems among children suffering from ADHD. Therefore, physical exercise should be incorporated in the daily life of children with ADHD.” Of particular note, the study also stated that “Depression is a major problem in children with ADHD. Scientific reports have shown pharmacological drugs which are used for the treatment of ADHD to further exacerbate depression in these subjects ... Therefore, improving depression through physical exercise by these children with ADHD will result in far less use of pharmacological drugs, thus sparing these children from adverse drug events.” Dr. Wisniewski adds, “[T]hose with ADHD are at increased risk for depression and anxiety at baseline. Physical activity … can increase the mental health wellbeing of those children with ADHD. It can also be helpful for these kiddos who are at baseline more impulsive and energetic to have a way to help release some of their energy and fuel it into an activity. Physical activity can also be a way for kiddos with ADHD to make connections and
Friends with other children, which can be something which may be difficult for them. [It] can bring kids together and allow them to have something in common to fuel friendship.” Specific questions remain about what types of exercise may be best for youth living with ADHD, as well as what the optimal frequency may be. Nonetheless, these studies encourage physical activity as a helpful, low-risk tool that is often neglected among today’s youth—and especially for those living with ADHD.