Abstract

The general objective of this study was to present the relationship between social support, provided by the practice of physical exercises, and aspects of mental health. To this end, a brief narrative review was carried out in databases (Scielo, Web of Science and PubMed) and in books on the subject. Among the main results, it is worth highlighting the fact that social support is one of the basic psychological needs for motivation and well-being. In addition, it is observed that the practice of physical exercises promotes better relationships with peers, culminating in reduced levels of mental disorders through this social supportmental health relationship. Therefore, we can observe that exercise, in addition to the physiological benefits for mental health, also seems to help in clinical conditions through improved socialization and sense of belonging on the part of practitioners. However, a larger body of empirical studies is needed to better understand the phenomenon.The general objective of this study was to present the relationship between social support, provided by the practice of physical exercises, and aspects of mental health. To this end, a brief narrative review was carried out in databases (Scielo, Web of Science and PubMed) and in books on the subject. Among the main results, it is worth highlighting the fact that social support is one of the basic psychological needs for motivation and well-being. In addition, it is observed that the practice of physical exercises promotes better relationships with peers, culminating in reduced levels of mental disorders through this social supportmental health relationship. Therefore, we can observe that exercise, in addition to the physiological benefits for mental health, also seems to help in clinical conditions through improved socialization and sense of belonging on the part of practitioners. However, a larger body of empirical studies is needed to better understand the phenomenon.

Keywords

physical exercise, social support, mental health