EFFECTS OF MARTIAL ARTS ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS:
A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
by Charlize Gabrielle D. Mariano
Category: Medicine
Abstract – Martial arts are believed to help improve general and mental health. As some students have mental health issues and martial arts are accessible, this systematic review sought to evaluate current literature regarding the effects of martial arts on the mental health of students. PubMed was searched and 5 studies were included out of the 12 that were found. This review found that, when practiced over several weeks, taekwondo helps to experience catharsis, and taijiquan can reduce depression and anxiety, increase mindfulness, and improve mood, perceived stress, and sleep quality.