Impact of Gender Difference and Exercise Intensities on Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Among University Students

Depression among university students is a growing concern due to factors such as separation from family, transition to a performance-based environment, financial stressors, and uncertainty about postgraduation. An estimated 71% of Egyptian university students have at least minor depression. Depression is associated with lower academic performance and can lead to substance abuse, chronic conditions, and premature mortality. Despite the availability of effective treatment, only one in five university students receives minimally adequate treatment. Physical exercise is suggested as an affordable, low-cost, non-pharmacological treatment for depression and anxiety. Exercise can effectively relieve anxiety symptoms, and a study will evaluate depression and anxiety symptoms based on gender and exercise intensity among university students.

Inclusion criteria

• Being a student in higher education
• Being single
• Age between 18 and 25 years of both sexes
• Accepting the principle of randomization in the trial.
• The body mass index is 18.5-24.9 kg/m².
• Diagnosed by psychiatrist as having a mild to moderate degree of anxiety and depression.
• Having scores of 7-24 on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression.
• Having scores of 17-30 on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale.

Exclusion criteria

• Neurological history such as illness or head trauma
• Present severe and unstable respiratory disease
• History of heart defect or cardiovascular disease or any other medical conditions prohibiting high-intensity sport or physical activity
• Being professional athlete.
• Involved in regular routine of exercises
• Taking medication for mental health history of any neurological disorders like neuropathy or seizures.