The association of physical activity against depression among Universiti Putra Malaysia undergraduate medical students-a cross sectional study
The crossroads of mental health and academia particularly in higher education have drawn consider- able attention. Research explores how physical activity impacts depression among medical students in higher educa- tion where mental health challenges are prevalent due to academic stress. Materials...
| Main Authors: | , , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Universiti Putra Malaysia
2024
|
| Online Access: | http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/114475/ http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/114475/1/114475.pdf |
| Summary: | The crossroads of mental health and academia particularly in higher education have drawn consider-
able attention. Research explores how physical activity impacts depression among medical students in higher educa-
tion where mental health challenges are prevalent due to academic stress. Materials and methods: In an observation-
al cross-sectional study, 251 undergraduate medical students participated by completing questionnaires assessing
physical activity and depressive symptoms. The study utilized the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Long
Form and Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Results: In a study of 251 medical students split into
pre-clinical and clinical groups, the latter were older (23.2 vs 20.3 years) and generally had lower physical activity
levels, especially in transport, domestic and leisure activities. Pre-clinical students showed higher overall activity.
Depression levels differed significantly between groups with clinical student scoring higher (20.2 vs 18.7). Rela-
tionships were noted between depression and physical activity, particularly in transport-related activities, walking
and total physical activity-higher activity linked to lower depression. However, no significant correlation was found
for moderate or vigorous physical activity levels. Conclusion: Study suggest promoting activities like walking and
transportation to mitigate depression among medical students, offering strategies to enhance the mental well-being
of future healthcare professionals. |
|---|