Abstract
Physical exercise is associated with depression in university students, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study examines the mediating role of psychological resilience and the moderating effect of family support in this relationship. A survey of 1,112 Chinese university students measured physical exercise, depression, psychological resilience, and family support. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were conducted, and a moderated mediation model was applied to explore these associations. Physical exercise correlated with lower depression levels and greater psychological resilience and family support. Depression negatively correlated with both resilience and family support, while resilience and support showed a positive association. Psychological resilience served as a mediator between exercise and depression, with family support moderating its effect. These findings provide insights into the psychological pathways linking physical exercise and depression in university students. Psychological resilience plays a key mediating role, while family support buffers its impact on depression. This study underscores the importance of resilience and social support in mitigating depression, offering practical guidance for intervention strategies targeting university students.