RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Physical activity and exercise in youth mental health promotion: a scoping review JF BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine JO BMJ OPEN SP EX MED FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP e000677 DO 10.1136/bmjsem-2019-000677 VO 6 IS 1 A1 Michaela Pascoe A1 Alan P Bailey A1 Melinda Craike A1 Tim Carter A1 Rhiannon Patten A1 Nigel Stepto A1 Alexandra Parker YR 2020 UL http://bmjopensem.bmj.com/content/6/1/e000677.abstract AB Background/Aim This scoping review examined the breadth and outcomes of controlled trials testing the effect of physical activity and exercise interventions across all mental health outcomes for mental health promotion and indicated prevention studies in young people.Methods The literature search was conducted using ‘Evidence Finder’.Results Thirty publications were included. Available evidence suggested that interventions of varying intensity may lead to a reduction in depression symptoms and that moderate-to-vigorous-intensity and light-intensity interventions may reduce anxiety symptoms. Effects of physical activity/exercise interventions on additional mental health outcomes were also shown; however, the number of studies was small, indicating a limited evidence base. Robust research regarding the effects of physical activity/exercise on mental health promotion and as an indicated prevention strategy in young people is lacking.Conclusion The available evidence suggests that physical activity/exercise is a promising mental health promotion and early intervention strategy and warrants further investigation.