We all know sport is good for kids, but what if it’s actually protective against mental illness and addiction later in life? A major Swedish study tracking over 16,000 children from birth to age 18 has found that playing team sports could be a game changer, especially for boys.

The mental health benefits weren’t just noticeable, they were tangible. And with boys showing the strongest gains, it raises important questions about how we’re supporting their mental health from the sidelines.