PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A TOOL FOR SUPPORTING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS UNDER MARTIAL LAW
Keywords:
physical activity, mental health, student youth, war, emotional resilience.Abstract
The paper presents a generalization of current scientific approaches to the use of physical activity as an effective tool for supporting the mental health of student youth under martial law in Ukraine. Given the prolonged psychological stress caused by warfare, disruption of daily routines, forced displacement, uncertainty about the future, and social isolation, physical activity is considered one of the key resources for stabilizing emotional well-being. Particular attention is paid to the effects of various types of movement-based practices (aerobics, yoga, breathing exercises, functional training) on reducing anxiety levels, improving sleep quality, normalizing emotional states, and enhancing students’ resilience. The article analyzes recent Ukrainian studies (2023–2024) and identifies the most effective approaches for integrating physical activity into psychosocial support programs within higher education institutions. The role of digital tools and technologies for maintaining physical activity in crisis conditions is also discussed as a promising strategy for ensuring student well-being and self-regulation in times of instability.
References
Skalii, O., & Maksymova, K. (2024). The impact of wellness fitness technologies on the psycho-emotional state of students during the war. Education. Innovation. Practice, 12(8), 67–72. https://doi.org/10.31110/2616-650X-vol12i8-009
Obrazhei, O.Ye., & Daruha, A. (2024). The influence of independent fitness activities on the psycho-emotional state of female students in higher education under martial law. Scientific Journal of the Ukrainian State University named after Mykhailo Drahomanov, 8(181). https://doi.org/10.31392/UDU-nc.series15.2024.8(181).32
Kozhokar, M., & Petrychuk, P. (2024). Overcoming the negative consequences of stress among students under martial law through physical culture. Physical Culture and Sport: Scientific Perspective, 1(1), 188–193. https://doi.org/10.31891/pcs.2024.1.29
Vnukova, O.M., & Kurdes, V.A. (2023). The impact of physical exercise on the psychological state of students during the war. Modern Trends in the Development of Science, Education, Technology and Society, 1, 50–51. https://er.knutd.edu.ua/handle/123456789/24829
