OS BENEFÍCIOS DA EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA NA PROMOÇÃO DA SAÚDE MENTAL E NA PREVENÇÃO DE DOENÇAS PSICOLÓGICAS DE JOVENS ESTUDANTES

Physical Education plays a fundamental role in the holistic development of young students, extending beyond physical and motor skill improvement. This article aims to analyze the benefits of Physical Education in promoting mental health and preventing psychological disorders among young students, considering its emotional, social, and cognitive impacts. Through a qualitative, bibliographic approach, the study discusses how regular physical activity in the school environment contributes to reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, while fostering psychological well-being, socialization, and self-esteem. It is concluded that Physical Education is an essential pedagogical and preventive tool within contemporary education and should be valued as a strategy for promoting students’ overall health. Keywords: Physical Education; Mental Health; Young Students; Well-being; Prevention.