Which of the following is an effect of physical activity on mental health?

Engaging in physical activity has a well-documented positive impact on mental health, particularly in reducing symptoms of depression. Regular exercise is known to stimulate the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that improve mood and promote feelings of well-being. This biochemical response can lead to a significant decrease in feelings of sadness and hopelessness often associated with depression. Furthermore, physical activity can enhance self-esteem, provide social interaction, and create a sense of achievement, which are all beneficial to mental health.

In contrast, the other options reflect consequences that are generally contrary to the benefits associated with physical activity. For instance, increased risk of anxiety, heightened stress levels, and inhibited cognitive function do not align with the established findings in exercise science, which consistently show that physical activity can alleviate anxiety and stress while enhancing cognitive processes. Thus, the reduction of depression through regular physical activity is a widely accepted outcome supported by extensive research in mental health.