Physical activity linked to reduced mental health sick leave in Japan

A cohort study conducted by researchers including Keisuke Kuwabara of Yokohama City University has found that even low levels of leisure-time physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of long-term sick leave due to mental illness.

Analyzing data from over 38,000 workers in Japan, the study published in Am J Prev Med indicates that individuals in the ‘low activity’ group—those not meeting official WHO guidelines—saw a 28% reduction in the risk of taking 30 days or more of leave for mental health reasons compared to inactive individuals. This effect was particularly pronounced among workers with depression and those in sedentary occupations.

Regarding workplace activity, the study noted that higher physical activity levels during work were associated with lower risks of mental health-related leave. Specifically, those in highly active roles saw a 50% reduction in risk compared to sedentary workers. The researchers concluded that even modest increases in movement can support mental health and suggested that employers could support workforce stability by facilitating physical activity through flexible scheduling or gym access.