Mind and Motion: A Systematic Review on Physical Activity and Mental Health in Indonesia

The global prevalence of mental health issues is increasing. While extensive research has demonstrated the positive effects of physical activity (PA) on mental health, its implementation within the Indonesian context necessitates consideration of the country’s distinct cultural characteristics. This study aimed to systematically synthesize and analyze the existing evidence on the relationship between PA and mental health in Indonesia. A comprehensive search of Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google Scholar was conducted from inception to September 2024. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists, and findings were narratively synthesized. Of 640 identified records, 34 studies (19 observational and 15 experimental) met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (31 studies) reported a significant association between PA and mental health outcomes, suggesting mental health benefits of PA. Low PA levels among Indonesians highlight the need for culturally and contextually appropriate strategies to promote PA in Indonesia and similar low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). As more than half of the included studies were of moderate to low methodological quality and may have been subject to potential risk of bias, findings should be interpreted cautiously.