Physical activity and mental well-being during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in most nations deciding upon self-isolation and social distancing policies for their citizens to control the pandemic and reduce hospital admission. This review aimed at evaluating the effect of physical activity on mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to augmented levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 that led to cardiovascular and neurological disorders associated with highly inflammatory effects of viral infection affecting the brain tissues leading to damage of the nervous system and resulting in cognition dysfunction, insulin sensitivity reduction, and behavioral impairments. Anxiety and depression may lead to negative effects on various quality of life domains, such as being physically inactive. Regular physical activities may reduce inflammatory responses, improve ACE-2 responses, and improve mental well-being during self-isolation and social distancing policies related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further studies should be conducted to assess the different intensities of physical activities on cardiovascular function, and mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The relations between mental well-being and burnout in medical staff during the COVID-19 pandemic: A network analysis

“…MW is defined as the positive process of recognizing and making choices for a healthy and cheering life ( 17 ). In real life, MW may reflect as positive life experiences that consist of good social support, positive emotions, and satisfaction in life and work ( 18 ). For this particular group of medical staff, MW plays an essential role in developing and maintaining medical personnel's sympathy and compassion for patients and their dedication to the strict aspects of medicine ( 19 ), both of which are crucial to alleviating burnout.…”

Underlying reasons for the decline in physical activity during COVID-19

“…We were happy to read the ingenious article by Abdelbasset et al [ 1 ], in which they illustrated the effect of physical activity on mental well-being during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The author not only elaborate the impact of physical activity on mental health through three sections: Mental health and community, neurological manifestations related to COVID-19, physical activity and mental health, but also conclude that the COVID-19 pandemic is correlated with angiotensin-converting enzyme-2, leading to related diseases.…”

Beneficial for mental health, exercise more or less?

“…Abdelbasset et al [ 1 ] concluded in the article that regular physical activities might improve mental health during the pandemic by reducing inflammatory responses. However, they also noted that overtraining or prolonged exercise may adversely induce mental disorders.…”

“…12 of World J of Psychiatry. The authors assert that the COVID-19 pandemic may have deleterious effects on physical and mental well-being, including a growing level of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2), associated with highly inflammatory effects[ 1 ]. Furthermore, they highlighted the significance of regular physical activities that maintain individuals' mental health during the pandemic.…”