A mediation model of Physical Activity and Mental Health: Exploring the effects of basic psychological needs, social support, and exercise tolerance

Physical Activity (PA) serves as a safeguarding element for the Physical Health (PH) and Mental Health (MH) of individuals in higher education. Nevertheless, the components connecting PA to MH remain insufficiently explored. This research explored how PA influences MH both directly and through various psychological mediators, including Psychological Resilience (PR), perceived Social Support (PSS), Exercise Tolerance (ET), Self-Efficacy (SE), and Basic Psychological Needs (BPN). A cross-sectional survey with a quantitative research design was conducted among 670 students (Mean age = 22.6, SD = 3.1; 58.96% were male and 41.04% were female) recruited from three universities in China. Participants completed validated questionnaires on PA, MH, and the mediating variables. The correlational and structural equational modeling revealed that PA impacts MH in a positive way, but directly and indirectly. Specifically, ET was associated with greater persistence in exercise, PSS and SE reduced feelings of inferiority and enhanced self-identity, PR buffered mental stress, and BPN satisfaction strengthened mental resilience. These mediating pathways collectively explained the beneficial impact of PA on students’ psychological well-being. The findings highlight the importance of integrating PA promotion with psychological support strategies in higher education to improve student MH and overall living standards.