Abstract
Physical activity (PA) and mental health are strongly linked. This chapter reviewed systematic reviews, meta-analyses and single studies that explored this relationship in Greece, Italy and Spain. A limited number of systematic reviews and meta-analyses emerged that specifically referred to one of these three countries. However, a richness of single studies supports the idea of a strong relationship between PA levels and mental health outcomes in various populations, such as women in menopause, prisoners and refugees. The review has also considered studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, thus exploring also the specificities of that period of time. Overall, this chapter highlighted four gaps in the literature that need to be addressed in future studies: (1) a stronger focus on gender differences to reduce inequalities; (2) a greater use of instrumental measurements; (3) the differentiation between various intensity levels and types of physical activities; and (4) the need for more intervention design studies. In conclusion, this chapter suggests the importance of integrating PA into public health policies, especially in the context of southern European countries, to promote mental well-being.