Abstract / Summary
Abstract Introduction: The rising prevalence of childhood obesity and increasing demand for mental health support represent a growing public health concern. Regular physical activity is associated with wide-ranging mental and physical health benefits. Yet, participation in physical activity continues to reflect existing social and structural inequalities. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of integrated physical activity and mental health interventions for often ignored youth, and identified key barriers and facilitators for effective implementation. Methods Seven databases were searched to cover multidisciplinary fields. All empirical and grey literature involving young people (aged 16–25) from often ignored communities, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies, were eligible for inclusion. Studies screened implemented interventions that combined physical activity and mental health elements into one intervention. Studies were screened independently by two reviewers. Results were synthesized in partnership with young people from often ignored communities. Results Searches yielded 2,293 records, with 1,624 unique records screened. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising six quantitative studies and one mixed-methods feasibility study. Six of seven studies rated high risk of bias. Due to substantial between-study heterogeneity, data was synthesised narratively using the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis approach. The most consistent evidence of benefit was found for depression and anxiety, with two studies reporting small-to-moderate effects (d = 0.41–0.50), though evidence for physical activity, resilience, and social or community outcomes was inconsistent. Qualitative evidence highlighted social connection, a sense of safety, and routine as valued aspects of intervention engagement, alongside logistical and structural barriers to sustained participation. Conclusions The evidence for integrated physical activity and mental health interventions in often ignored young people remains limited, methodologically weak, and insufficient to support firm conclusions about effectiveness. Future research should prioritise more rigorous study designs, consistent outcome reporting, and qualitative exploration of engagement and acceptability, co-designed with often ignored young people themselves.