Mental health promotion through soccer in high-risk communities: a narrative review

This narrative review explores the potential of soccer as a tool for promoting mental health in high-risk and underserved communities, synthesizing evidence from epidemiological data, biological mechanisms, and intervention studies. Amid rising global burdens of mental disorders like depression affecting over 280 million people and costing the economy $1 trillion annually, physical inactivity emerges as a key modifiable risk factor. Soccer, with its accessibility, social cohesion, and minimal resource needs, offers unique neuroprotective benefits through mechanisms such as endorphin and serotonin release, cortisol regulation, and enhanced psychological resilience. The review highlights mixed findings: recreational soccer improves mood, self-esteem, and cognitive function in general populations, while professional athletes face heightened risks of depression (16.7–39% prevalence) due to performance pressures and injuries. Case studies, including the UK’s “Coping Through Football” program, demonstrate significant gains in quality of life, physical activity, and psychosocial outcomes among individuals with severe mental health needs. For youth, structured soccer fosters emotional regulation, reduces anxiety, and builds resilience, particularly in adolescents facing trauma or high stress. Challenges include treatment gaps in low- and middle-income countries, gender disparities (higher symptoms in females), and scaling interventions amid funding constraints. Recommendations emphasize community-level integration, cultural adaptation, and policy alignment to leverage soccer’s global appeal for public health promotion. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to optimize soccer-based models for preventing mental disorders and supporting recovery in vulnerable groups.

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