I've been working a 5x5 barbell program, which has me squat 3 times a week, for the last year. I've never felt stronger, or faster in my life! (I'm 32). Exercise has had a very positive effect on my feeling of wellbeing, and I am glad to see that the big 5: bench press, shoulder press, row, squat, and deadlift, at least address the major sources of muscle weakness!
I would strongly recommend anyone interested in lifting to try a program like StrongLifts, or one of the alternatives, by themselves or with the help of a trained professional!
Just as a minor complaint, "Stronglifts" is just Mark Rippetoe's intermediate program lifted directly from his Starting Strength book and shamelessly rebranded.
If people are just getting into lifting, you can't do better than Starting Strength[0] for background info and mechanics on the main lifts.
Starting Strength is good to have around for reference, but the nice thing about Stronglifts for me is the app. It's high quality and makes the program very easy to follow. https://stronglifts.com/apps/
This is true, I agree. Even if you don't use the exact Starting Strength program (cleans can be intimidating for a novice), the info is good.
I'd also like to add that I've tried GSLP and found it to be my personal favorite between these 3. More important than that, however, is just going to the gym consistently. Don't get too hung up on picking the "perfect" program.
Definitely get the book, I did and it's useful -- but the value of the Stronglifts recommendation is the app.
It's well made and stone cold simple and tells you exactly what to do. It's what I did when I started the sport/hobby and I would definitely recommend it.
This plan should be everyone's plan until they have some very specific requirement. It's the most effective, most complete approach to balanced human strength (with the unexpected mental and energy benefits you mention).
I would strongly recommend anyone interested in lifting to try a program like StrongLifts, or one of the alternatives, by themselves or with the help of a trained professional!