title: Impact of physical activity on psychological distress: a prospective analysis of an Australian national sample.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We analyzed the individual-level associations between participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and psychological distress levels using a large, nationally representative, longitudinal sample and multivariable panel regression models.
  
  
  METHODS
  We used 3 waves of panel data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey, consisting of 34 000 observations from 17 000 individuals and covering 2007, 2009, and 2011. We used fixed-effects panel regression models accounting for observable and unobservable confounders to examine the relationships between the weekly frequency of MVPA and summary measures of psychological distress based on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We found substantial and highly statistically significant associations between the frequency of MVPA and different indicators of psychological distress. Frequent participation in MVPA reduces psychological distress and decreases the likelihood of falling into a high-risk category.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Our findings underscore the importance of placing physical activity at the core of health promotion initiatives aimed at preventing and remedying psychological discomfort.
authors.affiliation: Francisco Perales is with the Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. Jesus del Pozo-Cruz is with the Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Seville, Spain. Borja del Pozo-Cruz is with the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Francisco
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Perales
authors.forename: Jesus Del
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Pozo-Cruz
authors.forename: Borja Del
authors.initials: BD
authors.lastname: Pozo-Cruz
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*