Don't worry, be happy: cross-sectional associations between physical activity and happiness in 15 European countries

The effects of 7-week participation in football on personal well-being among male asylum seekers in a UK hotel

Background

This study examines the impact of participating in a seven-week football programme on the personal well-being of male asylum seekers residing in contingency accommodation in the UK.

Methods

This repeated measures study included a cohort of participants who engaged in weekly football sessions and completed a well-being questionnaire (ONS4) over a continuous seven-week period. Longitudinal linear regression analysis using generalized estimating equations (GEE) was used to assess the relationship between personal well-being and weekly minutes of football participation (M1). A second model incorporating the total number of non-football activity sessions in the past week as a covariate was also implemented (M2).

Results

Of the 73 participants who completed the questionnaire, 23 responded twice or more across the study period and were subsequently included in the analysis. Results revealed that 2 h of football participation within 7 days significantly improved aspects of personal well-being when compared with no football participation, including improved life satisfaction, feeling life is worthwhile, and happiness. Both models demonstrated a shift from 'low' to 'medium' ONS4 categorical score. Anxiety levels remained unchanged regardless of participation and model.

Conclusion

We provide important evidence on the potential benefits of football participation for promoting personal well-being among male asylum seekers residing in contingency accommodation.

Less smartphone and more physical activity for a better work satisfaction, motivation, work-life balance, and mental health: An experimental intervention study

Employees' work satisfaction and mental health are crucial for an organization's productivity. The current experimental study on employees (Ntotal = 278) from different professional sectors and workplaces in Germany investigated how to improve both by changes of daily non-work-related smartphone use time and physical activity time. For one week, the smartphone group (N = 73) reduced its daily smartphone use by one hour, the physical activity group (N = 69) increased its daily physical activity by 30 minutes, the combination group (N = 72) followed both interventions, the control group (N = 64) did not change its behavior. Online surveys assessed work-related and mental health-related variables at three measurement time points (baseline; post-intervention; two-week follow-up). The reduction of smartphone use time and the combination of both interventions increased work satisfaction, work motivation, work-life balance, and positive mental health significantly; experience of work overload and problematic smartphone use significantly decreased. All interventions decreased depressive symptoms and enhanced sense of control significantly. Following the present findings, a conscious and controlled reduction of non-work-related smartphone use time and its combination with more physical activity could improve employees' work satisfaction and mental health in the organizational context either as an addition to established training programs or as a separate time- and cost-efficient low threshold program.

Physical Activity and Subjective Vitality in Female University Students: The Mediating Role of Decisional Balance and Enjoyment of the Activity

Regular physical activity (PA) improves the psychological well-being of those who practice it. However, female university students are a risk group due to their low level of PA. Based on the transtheoretical model of behavioural change, the main aim of this study was to examine whether the relationship between PA and subjective vitality was mediated by cognitive-emotional variables such as decisional balance (perceived benefits and barriers) and enjoyment associated with PA in a group of female university students. Participants were asked to complete self-administered questionnaires, which were available for one month via a Google Form. The results showed the existence of a statistically significant, relative, and indirect effect between the stage of change and subjective vitality via both mediating variables. Compared to females in the pre-contemplation stage, those in the action and maintenance stages achieved higher subjective vitality scores as a result of the effect of being in a more advanced stage on decisional balance and enjoyment of PA. It is concluded that female university students who reported regular PA found the activity to be more revitalising, stimulating, and exciting; all positive feelings and cognitions that translated into a more energetic and vital perception of themselves.

Leisure-time physical activity improves happiness, health, and mood profile better than work-related physical activity

BACKGROUND

In an online survey of Lithuanian adults (n = 1140) aged 18 to 64 years, we sought to better understand the factors influencing the structure of physical activity (PA). We hypothesised that the PA paradox (i.e. the benefits of PA will be much greater during leisure-time than work-related or household moderate to vigorous PA) occurs more subjectively for psychological well-being indicators, than physiological well-being indicators, and should not depend on age or gender.

METHODS

An online questionnaire was distributed as to potential participants through the Facebook social networking website within the period May 2021 to December 2021. PA was assessed using the long version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Mood responses were assessed using the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS-LTU). Emotional intelligence was assessed using the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSREIT). Perceived stress was assessed using the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Descriptive analysis, a two-way analysis of variance, and linear regression analysis were used to interpret the data.

RESULTS

The results revealed that a PA paradox occurred in women and men in terms of health, happiness, vigour and perceived stress, and only in women according to morbidity and overeating. According to the regression analysis, women's and men's subjective health (β = 0.135; p < 0.001), happiness (β = 0.084; p = 0.018) and vigour (β = 0.169; p < 0.001) were significantly positively, and perceived stress (β = -0.088; p = 0.009) negatively correlated (regardless of age) only with leisure-time moderate to vigorous PA. 'Healthy', i.e. the amount of leisure-time PA in men decreases with age, while it does not change in women.

CONCLUSIONS

We believe that this study has expanded a clearer understanding of the PA paradox and its possible application to improving the health of individuals of different age groups.

The "Vicious Circle of addictive Social Media Use and Mental Health" Model

Social media use (SMU) is a significant part of many people's everyday life. Research around the globe describes an increase of addictive SMU tendencies since the COVID-19 outbreak. The present work combines available findings in the "Vicious Circle of addictive Social Media Use and Mental Health" model to explain how social media (SM) activity can contribute to the development of addictive tendencies, which consequences they have for mental health, and how to prevent them. Following the model, the interplay between the risk factors negative experiences caused by daily hassles and by unexpected global and traumatic events, SMU (dimension "quality"), and SM flow can directly contribute to addictive SMU through the "vicious circle". Time spent on SMU (dimension "quantity"), symptoms of depression and anxiety, and the personality trait narcissism contribute to the circle as moderators. Symptoms of stress, insomnia, and suicide-related outcomes are described as potential consequences of addictive SMU. Based on longitudinal intervention studies, a conscious reduction of SMU time and an increase of physical activity, as well as positive mental health and mindfulness are identified as protective factors that reduce the risk of addictive tendencies. The model contributes to a better understanding of addictive SMU. Implications of the model for future research and praxis, specifically for mental health programs and therapeutic treatment are discussed.

Time dedicated to physical activity among medical residents: are there differences based on gender or specialty type?

INTRODUCTION

Physical activity (PA) is associated with positive health outcomes such as prevention of chronic diseases, psychological well-being and improved work performance. Medical residents are subjected to sleep deprivation, extended work schedule and high burnout prevalence. These conditions may lead to the neglect of personal health and the restriction of time dedicated to PA. The objective of the present study was to analyze the time dedicated to PA of medical residents, comparing women vs men residents and surgical vs clinical residents.

METHODS

It is a cross-sectional study performed in a Spanish third-level university hospital. All medical residents from our institution were invited to voluntarily participate in the study answering a web-based questionnaire on June 2022. Data regarding demographics, residency and PA practice was recorded.

RESULTS

The response rate was 20.73% (114/550). The 32.5% of the residents considered themselves to be physically inactive and mean time dedicated to PA in a regular week was 3.62 ± 2.22 h. Men residents dedicated more time to PA than women residents (4.23 ± 2.42 h vs 3.14 ± 1.95 h, p = 0.012) and surgical residents dedicated more time than clinical residents (4.33 ± 2.36 h vs 3.23 ± 2.05 h, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

One third of the medical residents consider themself physically inactive. Women and clinical residents practice PA less time than men and surgical residents. Efforts should be made to encourage PA among residents, especially in women and non-surgeons.

Aging well in an aging society: physical health in older lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults

Introduction

Older sexual minority people meet a double stigma in our society related to their sexual identity and chronological age. The present study explores how experiences of discrimination and prejudice, coming out, and personal resiliency influence physical health of older lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults.

Methods

Respondents were recruited through online advertisements and an online-based survey. The sample included 82 Italian cisgender LGB adults over 65 years: young older adults (65-70 years; 78%) and old-old adults (over 71 years; 22%). Regarding sexual orientation, the sample was composed of sexual minority women (n = 30; 37%) and sexual minority men (n = 52; 63%).

Results

ANOVAs' findings showed that sexual minority women described lower levels of physical health compared to sexual minority men. At the same time, old-old adults reported higher experiences of discrimination and prejudice compared to young older adults. Moreover, findings from hierarchical multiple regression analysis described that coming out, higher levels of personal resiliency, and fewer experiences of discrimination were predictors of physical health, regardless of age and sexual minority categories.

Conclusion

These findings seem to align with previous studies that underline the relevance of investigating aging well in sexual minority people. Knowledge and awareness of LGBTQ+ issues are necessary for recognizing the unique needs and resources of older LGB people for promoting a healthy aging process.

The effect of physical fitness on psychological health: evidence from Chinese university students

BACKGROUND

Despite frequent discussions on the link between physical and mental health, the specific impact of physical fitness on mental well-being is yet to be fully established.

METHOD

This study, carried out between January 2022 and August 2023, involved 4,484 Chinese University students from eight universities located in various regions of China. It aimed to examine the association between physical fitness on psychological well-being. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and logistic regression were used to analyze the association between physical fitness indicators (e.g., Body Mass Index (BMI), vital capacity, and endurance running) and mental health, assessed using Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90). All procedures were ethically approved, and participants consented to take part in.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed that BMI, vital capacity, and endurance running scores significantly influence mental health indicators. Specifically, a 1-point increase in BMI increases the likelihood of an abnormal psychological state by 10.9%, while a similar increase in vital capacity and endurance running decreases the risk by 2.1% and 4.1%, respectively. In contrast, reaction time, lower limb explosiveness, flexibility, and muscle strength showed no significant effects on psychological states (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Improvements in BMI, vital capacity, and endurance running capabilities are associated with better mental health outcomes, highlighting their potential importance in enhancing overall well-being.

Mental Illness as a Predictor of Subjective Happiness Among University Employees Working in Hawai'i

The World Health Organization adopted happiness as an indicator of societal progress in addressing conditions that directly affect psychological well-being and recommended communities address the determinants and obstacles to subjective well-being. Therefore, we conducted an online survey, informed by the Sustainable Happiness Model, among university employees that measured life circumstances (sociodemographics) and intentional leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity as potential predictors of subjective happiness (assessed using the Subjective Happiness Scale [SHS]). The multiethnic sample (N = 85) primarily included those who identified as White (44%), Asian (33%), and Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (16%). The most prevalent age range was 41 to 50 years (31%), and 55% of the sample identified as female, 78% as faculty, and 22% as staff. Reporting a current mental health condition had significantly lower SHS scores compared to all other factors. Future research should explore interventions to support and improve university employee's mental health and overall well-being. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 62(5), 39-48.].

Psychological predictors of physical activity intensity among college students

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of mental health, subjective well-being, and the impact of COVID-19 on quality of life with PA intensity among college students. Participants: The sample included 1262 college students from a large Midwestern research university (mean age = 21.5 ± 3.6 years). Methods: Participants voluntarily and anonymously completed the Qualtrics questionnaires which included the Patient Health Questionnaire -Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Impact of COVID-19 on Quality of Life (QoL) Scale, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results: Multiple linear regression models indicated that COVID-19 QoL and life satisfaction were significant predictors of the total, vigorous, and moderate PA (p's < .05). Life satisfaction was also a significant predictor of walking. Conclusion: Higher level satisfaction and lower impact of COVID-19 on quality of life were related to higher total, vigorous, and moderate PA levels.

Positive Emotion Is Associated with Attentional Focus on Physical Activity and Eating in Adolescents: A Daily Diary Study

BACKGROUND

There are emerging data linking positive emotion to health behaviors, yet the self-regulatory processes underlying this link are understudied. The purpose of the current study was to examine the associations between daily positive emotion and daily attentional focus on physical activity and overeating as well as the moderating role of trait positive emotion arousal recovery.

METHOD

Adolescents (N = 47) aged 11 to 17 completed a baseline measure of their perceived positive emotion arousal regulation and a 7-day diary about their positive emotion and attentional focus.

RESULTS

Both within-person increases in and greater average daily approach-oriented positive emotion were associated with greater daily attentional focus on physical activity and overeating. Quicker perceived trait approach-oriented positive emotion arousal recovery dampened the association between within-person increases in daily approach-motivated positive emotion and daily attentional focus on overeating but not physical activity.

CONCLUSION

Positive emotion can elicit a narrowing of attentional focus towards emotionally salient health behavior. Future studies should examine the full mechanistic pathway linking positive emotion to health behavior via attentional focus and arousal recovery.

Nutritional Status and Physical Exercise Are Associated with Cognitive Function in Chinese Community-Dwelling Older Adults: The Role of Happiness

We aim to assess the relationship between nutrition status, physical exercise, and cognitive function and particularly examine how happiness modifies and mediates the relationship, among 699 seniors aged 60 and above in Shanghai, China. Linear regression models were used to validate the effects of nutrition and exercise on cognitive function and to test their interaction effects with happiness. When the interactions were significant, stratified analyses in sub-groups were conducted. Mediation effects of happiness were examined using two-step causal mediation models. We confirmed that better nutrition (p < 0.001) and exercise (p = 0.009) were significantly associated with less cognitive decline. Furthermore, the effects of nutrition and exercise on cognitive decline were significant in the unhappy (happiness < 20) (p < 0.001) and younger (age < 74) sub-groups (p = 0.015). Happiness partially mediated 11.5% of the negative association of cognitive decline with nutrition (p = 0.015) and 23.0% of that with exercise (p = 0.017). This study suggests that happiness moderates and partially mediates the effects of exercise and nutrition on cognitive status. The beneficial effects of exercise and nutrition were stronger in less happy or younger seniors. Future intervention studies are required to confirm this path relationship.

Effects of physical activity and sedentary time on depression, anxiety and well-being: a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study

BACKGROUND

Mental health conditions represent one of the major groups of non-transmissible diseases. Physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST) have been shown to affect mental health outcomes in opposite directions. In this study, we use accelerometery-derived measures of PA and ST from the UK Biobank (UKB) and depression, anxiety and well-being data from the UKB mental health questionnaire as well as published summary statistics to explore the causal associations between these phenotypes.

METHODS

We used MRlap to test if objectively measured PA and ST associate with mental health outcomes using UKB data and summary statistics from published genome-wide association studies. We also tested for bidirectional associations. We performed sex stratified as well as sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

Genetically instrumented higher PA was associated with lower odds of depression (OR = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.88, 0.97) and depression severity (beta =  - 0.11; 95% CI: - 0.18, - 0.04), Genetically instrumented higher ST was associated higher odds of anxiety (OR = 2.59; 95% CI: 1.10, 4.60). PA was associated with higher well-being (beta = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.04; 0.18) and ST with lower well-being (beta =  - 0.18; 95% CI: - 0.32, - 0.03). Similar findings were observed when stratifying by sex. There was evidence for a bidirectional relationship, with higher genetic liability to depression associated with lower PA (beta =  - 0.25, 95% CI: - 0.42; - 0.08) and higher well-being associated with higher PA (beta = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.25).

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated the bidirectional effects of both PA and ST on a range of mental health outcomes using objectively measured predictors and MR methods for causal inference. Our findings support a causal role for PA and ST in the development of mental health problems and in affecting well-being.

Participants stories about long-term achievement 60-months after attending a Healthy Life Centre programme (the VEND-RISK study) - a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Experiences of long-term achievement in participants attending programs for changing health habits including diet and physical activity interventions aiming for weight reduction is lacking. This study aimed to explore how participants experienced their own achievement of healthy habits 60 months after attending a Healthy Life Centre programme in the Norwegian primary healthcare.

METHODS

An explorative qualitative design with an inductive approach was employed. Individual semi-structured interviews were performed with 20 participants attending a Healthy Life Centre programme 60 months ago. They were aged 30-72 years, and 55% were females. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using systematic text condensation.

RESULTS

Two main themes emerged from the interviews with three subthemes each. The first theme "Changes over time" includes "Nutritional changes", "Physical activities adjusted to own presumptions" and "Health habits incorporated into life with manageable goals". The second theme "Barriers to fulfil changes" includes "Life circumstances with health issues influences the continuity to adjust to changes", "a busy everyday life" and "a lack of external drive when not having commitment to the Healthy Life Centre".

CONCLUSIONS

Focusing on changes adjusted to participants' own everyday lives and having an approach with small goals can facilitate long-term changes in health habits.

The influence of Tai Chi exercise on the subjective well-being in the aged: the mediating role of physical fitness and cognitive function

This study investigated the effects of Tai Chi exercise on subjective well-being in the aged. The participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group received 12-week Tai Chi exercise while the control group maintain their original living habits. The participants' subjective well-being, physical fitness, self-control, and executive function were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks of Tai Chi exercise. Results: (1) Tai Chi exercise can positively affect the subjective well-being of the aged (F(1,78) = 37.699, p < 0.001); (2) Tai Chi exercise could affect the subjective well-being in the aged through the independent intermediary of physical fitness (95% CI=[0.115, 0.485]) and self-control (95% CI=[0.109, 0.433]); (3) Tai Chi exercise could indirectly affect the subjective well-being in the aged through the chain mediation of executive function and self-control (95% CI=[0.009, 0.104]). This study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of Tai Chi exercise for subjective well-being in the aged.

The Epidemiology of Domain-Specific Physical Activity in New Zealand Adults: A Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Survey

BACKGROUND

Surveillance of domain-specific physical activity (PA) helps to target interventions to promote PA. We examined the sociodemographic correlates of domain-specific PA in New Zealand adults.

METHODS

A nationally representative sample of 13,887 adults completed the International PA Questionnaire-long form in 2019/20. Three measures of total and domain-specific (leisure, travel, home, and work) PA were calculated: (1) weekly participation, (2) mean weekly metabolic energy equivalent minutes (MET-min), and (3) median weekly MET-min among those who undertook PA. Results were weighted to the New Zealand adult population.

RESULTS

The average contribution of domain-specific activity to total PA was 37.5% for work activities (participation = 43.6%; median participating MET-min = 2790), 31.9% for home activities (participation = 82.2%; median participating MET-min = 1185), 19.4% for leisure activities (participation = 64.7%; median participating MET-min = 933), and 11.2% for travel activities (participation = 64.0%; median MET-min among participants = 495). Women accumulated more home PA and less work PA than men. Total PA was higher in middle-aged adults, with diverse patterns by age within domains. Māori accumulated less leisure PA than New Zealand Europeans but higher total PA. Asian groups reported lower PA across all domains. Higher area deprivation was negatively associated with leisure PA. Sociodemographic patterns varied by measure. For example, gender was not associated with total PA participation, but men accumulated higher MET-min when taking part in PA than women.

CONCLUSIONS

Inequalities in PA varied by domain and sociodemographic group. These results should be used to inform interventions to improve PA.

"Wrinkles will only go where the smiles have been": a path analysis of the associations between happiness and health, sleep, physical activities for older people in Abu Dhabi

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to identify the associations of happiness and factors related to physical and mental health, leisure, and sports activities amongst older adults in Abu Dhabi. The sample comprised 1,004 participants in the third Abu Dhabi Quality of Life survey administered in 2019-2020.

METHODS

The analysis used path analysis to develop a model incorporating the specified variables. The path model highlighted all direct and indirect associations between the variables. We also used variance analysis to test the differences in gender, marital status, and education attainment with happiness.

RESULTS

Results show that sleep quality is most associated with happiness and subjective health. In addition, sleeping hours did not show any association with subjective health; but were associated with happiness. The result also confirms that mental health is negatively associated with happiness and subjective health. How often an elderly gets involved in sport and activities for at least 30 min significantly affects subjective health and happiness.

CONCLUSIONS

Happiness of older adults is best understood when we look at both direct and indirect effects using a path model. Their happiness is significantly associated with their subjective health, mental health, participation in sport and activities and sleep quality, Implications of the study were highlighted, along with future research directions.

Associations of lifestyle with mental health and well-being in Chinese adults: a nationwide study

Background

A healthy lifestyle is beneficial to individuals' health. However, little is known about the associations of lifestyle factors with mental health and well-being. This study examined the associations of lifestyle factors with mental health (i.e., depression, anxiety, loneliness, perceived pressure, and self-rated health status) and well-being in Chinese adults.

Methods

A nationally representative survey was conducted in China from 20 June 2022 to 31 August 2022. Data from the survey were analyzed using multiple linear regression to determine the associations of lifestyle with mental health and well-being in Chinese adults. Standardized regression coefficients (β) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using multiple linear regression.

Results

The survey included 28,138 Chinese adults. Multiple linear regression results showed that there were significant negative associations of lifestyle scores with scores of depression (β = -0.93, 95% CI: -0.98, -0.88), anxiety (β = -0.71, 95% CI: -0.76, -0.67), loneliness (β = -0.23, 95% CI: -0.24, -0.21), and perceived pressure (β = -0.19, 95% CI: -0.22, -0.16). Moreover, there were significant positive associations of lifestyle with self-rated health status (β = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.79, 2.20) and well-being (β = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.91, 1.02).

Conclusion

This study provides insight into the associations of lifestyle factors with mental health and well-being and highlights the importance of improving and maintaining healthy lifestyle behaviors for favorable mental health and well-being.

Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on psychological well-being of firefighters

Background

Covid-19 pandemic represented a unique stressful event that affected the physical health and the psychological well-being (PWB) of individuals and communities. Monitoring PWB is essential to clarify the burden on mental health effects but also to define targeted psychological-supporting measures. This cross-sectional study evaluated the PWB of Italian firefighters during the pandemic.

Methods

Firefighters recruited during the pandemic period filled out a self-administered questionnaire the Psychological General Well-Being Index during the health surveillance medical examination. This tool is usually used to assess the global PWB and explores six subdomains: anxiety, depressed mood, positive well-being, self-control, general health, and vitality. The influencing role of age, gender, working activities, Covid-19 and pandemic restrictive measures was also explored.

Results

A total of 742 firefighters completed the survey. The aggregate median PWB global score was in the "no distress" range (94.3±10.3) resulting higher than that observed in studies conducted using the same tool in the Italian general population during the same pandemic period. Similar findings were observed in the specific subdomains thus suggesting that investigated population was in good PWB condition. Interestingly, significantly better outcomes were detected in the younger firefighters.

Conclusion

Our data showed a satisfactory PWB situation in firefighters that could be related to different professional factors such as work organization, mental and physical training. In particular, our results would suggest the hypothesis that in firefighters, the maintaining of a minimum/moderate level of physical activity (consisting of even just going to work) might had a profoundly positive impact on psychological health and well-being.

Factors Influencing Disabled Stroke Survivors' Quality of Life in Rural China: Based on the Structural Characteristics and Psychometric Properties of the SF-36 Assessment

Many stroke survivors' quality of life is impaired. Few studies of factors influencing their quality of life have been based on the factors tested by the short form 36 instrument. This study did so with 308 physically disabled stroke survivors in rural China. Principal components analysis was applied to refine the dimension structure of the short form 36 assessment, followed by backward multiple linear regression analysis to determine the independent factors influencing quality of life. The structure revealed differed from the generic structure in showing that the mental health and vitality dimensions are not unidimensional. Subjects who reported access to the outdoors as convenient demonstrated better quality of life in all dimensions. Those who exercised regularly achieved better social functioning and negative mental health scores. Other factors influencing a better quality of life in terms of physical functioning were younger age and not being married. Being older and better educated predicted better role-emotion scores. Being female correlated with better social functioning scores, while men scored better on bodily pain. Being less educated predicted higher negative mental health, while being less disabled predicted better physical and social functioning. The results suggest that the SF-36's dimension structure should be re-evaluated before using it to assess stroke survivors.

Predicting wellbeing over one year using sociodemographic factors, personality, health behaviours, cognition, and life events

Various sociodemographic, psychosocial, cognitive, and life event factors are associated with mental wellbeing; however, it remains unclear which measures best explain variance in wellbeing in the context of related variables. This study uses data from 1017 healthy adults from the TWIN-E study of wellbeing to evaluate the sociodemographic, psychosocial, cognitive, and life event predictors of wellbeing using cross-sectional and repeated measures multiple regression models over one year. Sociodemographic (age, sex, education), psychosocial (personality, health behaviours, and lifestyle), emotion and cognitive processing, and life event (recent positive and negative life events) variables were considered. The results showed that while neuroticism, extraversion, conscientiousness, and cognitive reappraisal were the strongest predictors of wellbeing in the cross-sectional model, while extraversion, conscientiousness, exercise, and specific life events (work related and traumatic life events) were the strongest predictors of wellbeing in the repeated measures model. These results were confirmed using tenfold cross-validation procedures. Together, the results indicate that the variables that best explain differences in wellbeing between individuals at baseline can vary from the variables that predict change in wellbeing over time. This suggests that different variables may need to be targeted to improve population-level compared to individual-level wellbeing.

Associations of parent-child exercise with family relations and parental mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

Due to COVID-19 pandemic and behavior restrictions, deterioration of family relations and mental health in child-rearing households has been reported. This study examined whether frequent parent-child exercise (PCE) is associated with improved family relations and parental mental health under COVID-19.

METHODS

Using data from the Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey (JACSIS), a nationwide survey conducted in August-September 2020, we extracted respondents with children aged 6 to 18 years (n = 2960). Logistic regression was performed to investigate the association between PCE frequency and changes in family relations and parental mental health.

RESULTS

Compared with participants with 6-12-years old children, those with 13-18-years old children reported less PCE. Among participants with 6-12-years old children, compared to those without PCE, those conducted PCE more than once per week reported more improved relation with children and greater happiness (ORs ≥ 1.69), controlling covariates. Those conducted PCE 3 or more times a week also reported decreased loneliness (OR = 0.68). Whereas PCE conducted 1-2 times a month was not associated with any changes in participants with children of 6-12-years old, it was associated with more improved relations with children and spouses in participants with children of 13-18-years old (ORs ≥ 1.98).

DISCUSSION

This study is the first to investigate the association of PCE with family relations and parental mental health under COVID-19. Our results suggest that PCE may enhance family relations and parental mental health and the effect may differ according to child's age.

mHealth to Support Outdoor Gym Resistance Training: The ecofit Effectiveness RCT

INTRODUCTION

In Australia, 45% of adults meet the aerobic recommendations, and only 9%-30% meet the resistance training guidelines. Given the lack of at-scale community-based interventions promoting resistance training, the aim of this study was to assess the impact of an innovative mHealth intervention on upper- and lower-body muscular fitness, cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity, and social-cognitive mediators among a sample of community-dwelling adults.

STUDY DESIGN

Researchers evaluated the community-based ecofit intervention using a cluster RCT from September 2019 to March 2022 in 2 regional municipalities of New South Wales, Australia.

SETTING/PARTICIPANTS

Researchers recruited a sample of 245 participants (72% female, aged 53.4±13.9 years) who were randomized to the ecofit intervention group (n=122) or waitlist control (n=123) group.

INTERVENTION

The intervention group received access to a smartphone application with standardized workouts tailored to 12 outdoor gym locations and an introductory session. Participants were encouraged to perform at least 2 ecofit workouts per week.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary and secondary outcomes were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 9 months. The coprimary muscular fitness outcomes were evaluated using the 90-degree push-up and the 60-second sit-to-stand test. Intervention effects were estimated using linear mixed models accounting for group-level clustering (participants could enroll in groups of up to 4). Statistical analysis was conducted in April 2022.

RESULTS

Statistically significant improvements were observed in upper (1.4 repetitions, 95% CI=0.3, 2.6, p=0.018) and lower (2.6 repetitions, 95% CI=0.4, 4.8, p=0.020) body muscular fitness at 9 months but not at 3 months. Increases in self-reported resistance training, resistance training self-efficacy, and implementation intention for resistance training were statistically significant at 3 and 9 months.

CONCLUSION

This study has shown that a mHealth intervention promoting resistance training using the built environment can improve muscular fitness, physical activity behavior, and related cognitions in a community sample of adults.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was preregistered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12619000868189).

Health, Hope, and Harmony: A Systematic Review of the Determinants of Happiness across Cultures and Countries

The aim of this study was to review the literature on what constitutes happiness across cultures and countries to advance scholarly knowledge on the happiness construct. A systematic review was conducted to examine the determinants of happiness in samples across cultures and countries. Five different databases, including APA PsycNet, EBSCO-Academic, EBSCO-Business, Project MUSE, and Google Scholar, grey literature, and in-text references from relevant review articles were used. A total of 155 articles were included in the review, encompassing studies from over 100 countries and 44 cultures. Myriad determinants of happiness were found that were placed into three broad categories labeled Health, Hope, and Harmony. The predominant happiness determinants were mental, emotional, and physical well-being, a purposeful holistic work-life balance, nurturing social relationships, caring for self and others, and being in harmony with one's culture, traditions, community, religion, and environment. This study engendered an "Integrated Model of the Determinants of Happiness" to provide a universally applicable conceptualization of the happiness construct. By examining studies on determinants of happiness across the globe in the past 90 years, this review uncovered that happiness constitutes multiple determinants that fall under three major categories: 'Health', 'Hope', and 'Harmony'.

Emotional and physical-related experiences as potential mechanisms linking physical activity and happiness: Evidence from the Ghana Aging, Health, Psychological Well-being, and Health-seeking Behavior Study

This study examines the association between physical inactivity (PI) and happiness among Ghanaian older adults and whether emotional and physical-related experiences (EPE) mediate the association. Data from the Aging, Health, Psychological Well-being and Health-seeking Behavior Study (AgeHeaPsyWel-HeaSeeB) conducted in 2016-2018 among 1201 older Ghanaians were analyzed. Happiness was assessed with the self-rated and cross-culturally validated item on a 5-point scale. PI was evaluated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Hierarchical linear regressions and mediation analyses were performed to estimate the hypothesized associations. Results showed that PI was significantly associated with lower levels of happiness (β = -0.053, p < .001) net of potential confounders. The association of PI with happiness was attenuated and fully mediated by pain, sleep problems, loneliness, anxiety, and boredom. Moreover, in terms of the cross-level interaction effects, PI moderated the happiness-pain (β = -0.029, p < .005), happiness-social isolation (β = -0.024, p < .05), and happiness-boredom (β = -0.023, p < .005) associations. Our data suggest that EPE may explain why PI decreases happiness in old age. Findings provide valuable insight into the interventions and decisions to improve subjective well-being and quality of life in old age.

The Relationship among College Students' Physical Exercise, Self-Efficacy, Emotional Intelligence, and Subjective Well-Being

PURPOSE

To deeply analyze the influencing factors on college students' subjective well-being and the path mechanism between each factor.

METHOD

The physical activity rating scale (PARS-3), the emotional intelligence scale (EIS), the self-efficacy scale (GSES), and the subjective well-being scale (SWS) were used for 826 students from two comprehensive universities in southwest China. College students conducted a questionnaire survey, and used SPSS22.0 and AMOS21.0 statistical software to process and analyze the obtained data.

RESULTS

(1) Physical exercise was significantly positively correlated with self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and subjective well-being; self-efficacy was significantly positively correlated with emotional intelligence and subjective well-being; emotional intelligence was significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being; (2) Physical exercise has a direct positive predictive effect on subjective well-being (ES = 0.16); (3) Self-efficacy (ES = 0.057) and emotional intelligence (ES = 0.077) play a part in mediating the role between physical exercise and subjective well-being, respectively. Meanwhile, the chain mediation effect (ES = 0.026) of self-efficacy and emotional intelligence also achieved a significant level, among them, only others' emotional management and emotional application were involved in the regulation of emotional intelligence.

CONCLUSIONS

Actively participating in physical exercise could not only directly improve the level of subjective well-being of college students but also indirectly affect their subjective well-being by improving their self-efficacy, as well as their emotional management and emotional application abilities, thereby improving college students' life satisfaction feelings of happiness, such as degree, positive emotion, and negative emotion.

Long-Term Trend in the Association Between Disaster Damage and Happiness Before and After the Great East Japan Earthquake

Objectives: Disasters change survivors’ living circumstances, which can affect their happiness. We examined the trends in the association between disaster damage and happiness before and after a disaster.

Methods: We analyzed 4,044 participants aged ≥65 years who had experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. The baseline survey was conducted 7 months before the disaster. Follow-up surveys have been conducted every 3 years. Using a mixed model for repeated measures, we compared the prevalence ratios (PRs) for unhappiness according to the survivors’ level of housing damage, which is a proxy for disaster damage.

Results: The unhappiness in participants who suffered severe damage appeared to be higher than in those with no damage in 2010 (multivariate-adjusted PR: 1.18, 95% confidence interval: 0.93–1.48). A higher PR was observed after the earthquake in 2013 (1.34, 0.79–2.28), while there was no difference in 2016 (1.02, 0.53–1.97) and 2019 (1.03, 0.50–2.12).

Conclusion: The prevalence of unhappiness in survivors with severe housing damage was higher before the disaster. However, the unhappiness gap between people with and without housing damage converged during the follow-up.

Experimental longitudinal evidence for causal role of social media use and physical activity in COVID-19 burden and mental health

Aim

The COVID-19 outbreak has severely impacted people's mental health. The present experimental study investigated how to reduce this negative effect by a combination of two interventions.

Subject and methods

Participants (N total = 642) were users of social media in Germany. For two weeks, the social media group (N = 162) reduced its social media use (SMU) by 30 minutes daily, the physical activity group (N = 161) increased its physical activity by 30 minutes daily, the combination group (N = 159) followed both instructions, and the control group (N = 160) did not get specific instructions. Online surveys assessed variables of SMU, physical activity, mental health, COVID-19 burden, and lifestyle at six measurement time points up to six months after the intervention.

Results

In the experimental groups, (addictive) SMU, depression symptoms, and COVID-19 burden decreased, while physical activity, life satisfaction, and subjective happiness increased. All effects were stronger and more stable in the combination group in the longer-term. Smoking behavior decreased in the social media group only.

Conclusion

Thus, the conscious combination of less SMU and more physical activity leads causally to more psychological resilience against negative pandemic impacts and to higher levels of mental health over six months. Prevention programs could improve their effectiveness by integrating the time- and cost-efficient interventions - separately or in combination.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10389-022-01751-x.

Can physical activity eliminate the mortality risk associated with poor sleep? A 15-year follow-up of 341,248 MJ Cohort participants

BACKGROUND

This study examined the joint associations of sleep patterns and physical activity (PA) with all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer mortality.

METHODS

A total of 341,248 adults (mean age = 39.7 years; men: 48.3%) were included in the study, with a 15-year follow-up. Participants reported sleep duration and disturbances (difficulty falling asleep, easily awakened, or use of sleeping medication). PA was classified into 4 levels: <7.5, 7.5-14.9, 15.0-29.9, and ≥30.0 metabolic equivalent hours per week (MET-h/week). To understand the joint associations of sleep patterns and PA with mortality, Cox proportional hazard models were conducted, with exposure variables combining sleep duration/disturbances and PA.

RESULTS

Compared with the reference group (sleeping 6-8 h/day), individuals who slept >8 h/day had higher risk for all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.307, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.248-1.369), CVD mortality (HR = 1.298, 95%CI: 1.165-1.445), and cancer mortality (HR = 1.128, 95%CI: 1.042-1.220). Short sleep duration was not associated with mortality risk. Increased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality was found in participants who had difficulty falling asleep (HR = 1.120, 95%CI: 1.068-1.175; HR = 1.163, 95%CI: 1.038-1.304, respectively), and used sleeping medication (HR = 1.261, 95%CI: 1.159-1.372; HR = 1.335, 95%CI: 1.102-1.618, respectively) compared with those who slept well. Long sleep duration and sleep disturbances were not associated with risk of all-cause and CVD mortality among individuals achieving a PA level of ≥15 MET-h/week, and in particular among those achieving ≥30 MET-h/week.

CONCLUSION

Long sleep duration, difficulty falling asleep, and use of sleeping medication were related to a higher risk of death. Being physically active at a moderate intensity for 25-65 min/day eliminated these detrimental associations.

The Value of Sport: Wellbeing Benefits of Sport Participation during Adolescence

Insight into the unique benefits of sport participation above and beyond those associated with participation in other physical activities among adolescents is limited in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ). The purpose of this study was to examine the association between wellbeing and organised sport participation among adolescents whilst accounting for demographic characteristics and other recreational physical activity. Demographic characteristics (age, gender, ethnicity, deprivation, (dis)ability status), organized sport, recreational physical activity, and wellbeing were assessed in cohorts of NZ adolescents (11–17 years) between 2017 and 2019. After adjusting for demographics, better wellbeing was associated with participation in any recreational physical activity (OR = 2.49, 95%CI = 1.97–3.13), meeting physical activity recommendations (OR = 1.63, 95%CI = 1.47–1.81), and each additional hour of recreational physical activity (OR = 1.03, 95%CI = 1.02–1.04). After adjusting for demographics and overall recreational physical activity participation, better wellbeing was also associated with participation in any organized sport (OR = 1.66, 95%CI = 1.49–1.86), and each additional hour of organized sport (OR = 1.09, 95%CI = 1.07–1.11). Although participation in recreational physical activity appears to be beneficial for wellbeing, organized sport appears to offer unique additional wellbeing benefits. Positive experiences of organized sport participation may offer additional wellbeing value above and beyond other recreational physical activity types in young people who are active.

What Type of Housework Happiness Do You Prefer? Does Gender and Health Matter? A Taiwanese Study

The purposes of this study was to discover the circumstances in which people gain happiness from performing housework and to understand gender differences in housework-related happiness. We used national data from the Taiwan Social Change Survey conducted in 2011. Only married and cohabiting respondents were included in this study (N = 1250). Two types of housework happiness were developed: the goal satisfaction type (GST) and the activity enjoyment type (AET), based on interview results in pilot studies and the concept of positive psychology. We found that the significant variables on the two types of housework-related happiness for the total sample were gender, socioeconomic status, gender role attitude, decision-making power, relative feminine housework, and respondent’s health. In addition, the effects on the two types of housework-related happiness for males and females are different. Most people derive happiness from housework if their preferences for type of housework and their personal characteristics are matched. It is possible to transform an otherwise monotonous daily activity into a source of happiness through the process of understanding your housework preference type, learning to enjoy the beauty of housework, and creating fun with chores for families. However, the survey (TSCS) used in this study was carried out over 10 years ago (2011) and the results may be somewhat different in Taiwan today.

Modeling the effects of physical activity, education, health, and subjective wealth on happiness based on Indonesian national survey data

BACKGROUND

Studies on physical activity's psychological benefits are generally fewer than those on its physiological benefits, and these limited studies have mostly investigated its impact on cognitive functions. Studies exclusively investigating physical activity's effects on happiness are rare. This study aims to investigate the effect of physical activity on psychological functions, especially on happiness.

METHODS

Analysis was based on a large field of nationally representative Indonesian adult data. Data were compiled based on face-to-face interviews with 12,051 adults. Participants provided measures of physical activity, subjective health, and happiness, and responses were recorded with computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) software. Demographic data, including gender, subjective wealth, education, and age, were also included in the analysis. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted to determine the relationship between physical activity, health, subjective wealth, and happiness.

RESULTS

The tested model of the association between physical activity, health, subjective wealth, and happiness indicated a good fit, based on χ² (1, n = 12,051) = 48.733, p = .001, RMSEA = .063, and CFI = .97. Path analysis results showed that health conditions mediated the effects of physical activity on happiness. The result also showed positive effects of education level and subjective wealth on happiness.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that engagement in physical activity has a positive impact on happiness. Indonesian adults should engage in more active lifestyles since more than one-third of Indonesians did not get enough physical activity.

The relationship between physical activity intensity and subjective well-being in college students

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to examine the associations between physical activity (PA) and subjective well-being (SWB) by focusing on the intensity of PA and different components of SWB. Participants: The sample included 723 undergraduate students (mean age = 19.3 years). Methods: Participants responded to questionnaires measuring life satisfaction, happiness, positive affect, negative affect, vigorous-intensity PA, moderate-intensity PA, and walking. Multiple regression models were performed with the SWB variables as the outcomes and PA variables as the predictors while controlling for age and sex. Results: While vigorous-intensity PA was the only significant predictor for life satisfaction, both moderate-intensity PA and vigorous-intensity PA were positively associated with happiness and positive affect and negatively associated with negative affect. Walking was not associated with any component of SWB. Conclusion: PA has a positive relationship with SWB in college students and this relationship differs by the intensity of PA and the component of SWB.

Clustering of health behaviors among Japanese adults and their association with socio-demographics and happiness

Background

Scholars have associated happiness with health behaviors, which co-occur and exert synergistic effects. Therefore, identifying clusters of health behaviors and their effect on happiness can contribute to the development of strategies for promoting happiness and improving health behaviors.

Aim

This study aimed to examine clusters of health behaviors and their associations with socio-demographics and with happiness among Japanese adults.

Methods

This study used data from the Japanese Household Panel Survey and the Keio Household Panel Survey. Questionnaires were distributed to 4,993 households out of which 1,554 responses were analyzed (participants aged 27−65 years). The survey included health behaviors (alcohol consumption, smoking, vegetable and fruit consumption, breakfast-eating habits, and physical activities), happiness, and socio-demographics. Latent class analysis was conducted to identify the clusters, whereas latent regression was employed to investigate socio-demographics related to the clusters. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the relation between happiness and the clusters.

Results

Two health behavior clusters were identified: Cluster 1 (low substance use and good dietary habit; n = 817; 52.3%) and Cluster 2 (high alcohol, poor nutrition, and inactive; n = 737; 47.7%). Latent regression analysis indicated that all socio-demographics, barring socioeconomic status, were significantly associated with the clusters. The “low substance use and good dietary habit” cluster was significantly related with higher odds of happiness (odds ratio = 1.425, 95% confidence interval = 1.146−1.772, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study identified health behavior clusters among Japanese adults and established the association between the “low substance use and good dietary habit” cluster and high levels of happiness. However, the causality of the relationship between health behavior and happiness remains unclear, which highlights the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Relationship between sense of control, psychological burden, sources of information and adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules

BACKGROUND

Adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules is important to slow down the pandemic spread. The present study investigated potential predictors of the adherence.

METHODS

Data of 1.247 participants from Germany (age: M (SD) = 22.99 (6.18)) were assessed via online surveys in autumn and winter 2020. The focus of the data collection was on adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules, sense of control, psychological burden, and sources of COVID-19 information.

RESULTS

In moderated mediation analyses, the positive relationship between sense of control and adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules was significantly mediated by the level of psychological burden experienced by the COVID-19 situation. The source of COVID-19 information significantly moderated the negative association between burden and adherence. Specifically, the higher the use of social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) and the lower the use of official governmental sites and of television reports, the closer the link between high burden and low adherence.

LIMITATIONS

Due to the cross-sectional study design, the present findings allow only hypothetical assumptions of causality.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results disclose potential mechanisms that could contribute to the adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules. They emphasize the role of the COVID-19 information source for the adherence level. Potential ways of how the level of adherence could be enhanced are discussed.

Physical activity, mental and physical health during the Covid-19 outbreak: longitudinal predictors of suicide ideation in Germany

Aim

Suicide ideation has increased since the outbreak of Covid-19 in many countries. The present longitudinal study investigated potential predictors of suicide ideation.

Subject and methods

Data of 406 participants from Germany (age M = 27.69, SD = 6.88) were assessed via online surveys in spring 2020 (baseline, BL) and in spring 2021 (follow-up, FU).

Results

The current results reveal a significant increase in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress between 2020 and 2021. Positive mental health (PMH), sense of control, and physical health significantly decreased. Depression symptoms (BL), PMH (BL), and consciously enhanced physical activity since the pandemic outbreak (FU) significantly predicted 12-month suicide ideation (FU). In a moderated mediation analysis, the positive relationship between depression and suicide ideation was significantly mediated by PMH. Consciously enhanced physical activity significantly moderated the negative association between PMH and suicide ideation.

Conclusion

The context of Covid-19 could negatively impact mental health and physical health. This might increase the risk for suicide ideation. However, PMH and physical activity might serve as protective factors. The protective effect of physical activity could be especially important in people with high depression symptoms and low PMH, such as clinical patients. Potential ways of how PMH and physical activity could be enhanced in the Covid-19 context to prevent suicide ideation are discussed.

The relationship between happiness and self-rated health: A population-based study of 19499 Iranian adults

Background

Health is one of the most important factors that affect happiness. This study aimed to assess the association between happiness and self-rated health among the Iranian adult population.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of adults aged 18–65 In Iran in 2020. Demographic information, the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire, and a single item on self-rated health were used to collect the data. The relationship between happiness with demographic variables and self-rated health was examined by performing logistic regression analyses.

Results

In all, 19499 were studied (9845 males and 9654 females). The mean age of participants was 36.38± 8.17 years. The mean happiness score was 4.1± 0.57 (out of 6) and this for self-rated health was 3.66±1.2 (out of 5). The results obtained from logistic regression analysis showed that very poor health status (OR: 5.114, 95% CI, P = 4.490–5.824, p <0.001), poor or very poor income status (OR: 1.553, 95% CI, P = 1.406–1.716, p <0.001), unemployment (OR: 1.704, 95% CI, P = 1.432–2.029, p <0.001), being aged 25–34 years (OR: 1.190, 95% CI, P = 1.088–1.302, p <0.001), and years of education (OR for 10–12 years of education: 1.271, 95% CI = 1.174–1.377, p< 0.001) were significant contributing factors to a lower happiness.

Conclusion

The results showed that self-rated health was the most significant factor that affected happiness even after adjustment for socioeconomic variables, including age, income, employment, and education. Indeed, improving population health might be an effective measure to improve happiness among Iranians.

The Effect of Problematic Social Media Use on Happiness among Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Lifestyle Habits

Background: Although the relationship between problematic social media use (PSMU) and happiness has been already explored, less is known about the mechanisms that translate PSMU into lower happiness through lifestyle habits. Therefore, the current study focuses on the association between PSMU and happiness, exploring a mediating effect of lifestyle habits (e.g., difficulties in getting to sleep and frequency of physical activity) among Italian adolescents. Methods: A total of 58,976 Italian adolescents (mean age = 13.6, SD = 1.63; age range = 10.5−16.5; 49.4% females) were included. The pattern of relationships specified by the theoretical model was examined through path analysis. Results: Difficulties in getting to sleep (β = −0.037, p < 0.001) and frequency of physical activity (β = −0.012, p < 0.001) were mediators in the relationship between PSMU and happiness. Multi-group analyses across gender and age groups (11, 13, and 15 years old) showed that the chain mediating effect of the frequency of physical activity on the difficulties in getting to sleep was not significant for females but significant for males and for all of the three age groups. Overall, females and older ages were sensitive to the whole model. Conclusion: Along with difficulties in getting to sleep and the frequency of physical activity, lifestyle habits may contribute to the association between PSMU and happiness. We also recommend that future studies focus on PSMU in females and older adolescents, as they show more general sleep problems and reduced physical activity.

Association between the Physical Activity Behavioral Profile and Sedentary Time with Subjective Well-Being and Mental Health in Chilean University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the association between the behavioral profile of physical activity and sedentary time with subjective well-being and mental health in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study in a voluntary sample of 469 university students (22.4 ± 0.19 years; 66% women). According to students' self-reports of physical activity and sedentary time, four behavioral profiles were created to investigate their association with subjective well-being and mental health using one-factor ANOVA that was adjusted to a multifactorial model.

RESULTS

The physically inactive and sedentary behavior profile presents the lowest levels of subjective well-being (p < 0.001), positive affective experiences (p < 0.001) and general mental health (p = 0.001). When adjusting for confounding variables, it was observed that the physically active and non-sedentary profile was associated with better general mental health (p < 0.01) in contrast to those who are physically active and sedentary.

CONCLUSIONS

Chilean university students with a physically inactive and sedentary profile during the pandemic presented worse well-being and mental health, with a sedentary lifestyle being one of the variables that most affects the mental health of these students. Therefore, measures should be implemented to encourage this population to maintain adequate levels of physical activity and reduce sedentary times.

Measuring Happiness in Adolescent Samples: A Systematic Review

Background: Happiness is a phenomenon that relates to better mental and physical health and even longevity. There has been an increase in surveys assessing subjective well-being as well as happiness, one of the well-being components that reflect one’s feelings or moods. Happiness is mostly measured in adult samples. There is a lack of an overview of the tools used to evaluate adolescent happiness, so this paper aimed to review them. Methods: A literature search was performed in the PubMed and PsycArticles databases (2010–2019). In total, 133 papers met the eligibility criteria for this systematic review. Results: The results are grouped according to the type of measure, single or multiple items, that was used in a study. Almost half of the studies (64 of 133) evaluated subjective happiness using single-item measures. The most commonly used scales were the 4-item Subjective Happiness Scale and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. Among the 133 articles analyzed, 18 reported some validation procedures related to happiness. However, in the majority of cases (14 studies), happiness was not the central phenomenon of validation, which suggests a lack of happiness validation studies. Conclusions: Finally, recommendations for future research and for the choice of happiness assessment tools are presented.

The Role of Personality in Prediction of Satisfaction With Life in Recreational Athletes During the First Wale of Pandemic Covid-19

The aim of this research is to contribute to the understanding of the concept of satisfaction with life by determining the relationship between personality traits and the subjective experience of satisfaction with life in students—recreational athletes. This research is based on the biological theory of personality by Hans Eysenck and it attempts to offer explanations of a possible change in satisfaction with life in the period of great social deprivation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The sample of subjects consisted of 120 undergraduate students (N = 120) of all years and both sexes, 55 (45.8%) males and 65 (54.2%) females, at the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, the University of Nis. The average age of the subjects was 23.63 years (SD = 2.070). Eysenck's personality questionnaire (Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, EPQ: Eysenck et al., 1885, adapted and translated by Šipka, 1985) was used for the operationalization of personality structure. The SWLS scale (Satisfaction With Life Scale, Diener et al., 1985) was used for estimating satisfaction with life. A significant regression model, which explains 11% of variance in the subjective experience of satisfaction with life in recreational athletes, was obtained. In the model, extraversion stands out as a significant predictor from the group of personality traits (β = 0.279). Neuroticism (β = −0.160) and psychoticism (β = −0.122) did not prove to be significant predictors of satisfaction with life in the structural model regardless of there being a significant negative correlation between neuroticism and satisfaction with life. The more extraverted participants had a keener subjective sense of satisfaction with life.

Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Professionals in Tunisia: Risk and Protective Factors

Background: Our study aimed to evaluate the magnitude of different psychological outcomes among Tunisian healthcare professionals (HCPs) during the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and to identify the associated factors.

Methods: Healthcare professionals completed a cross-sectional questionnaire during a 3-week period in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Tunisia. The survey collected demographic information, factors that may interfere with the psychological outcomes, behavioral changes, and mental health measures. Mental health was assessed using three scales: the Seven-Item Insomnia Severity Index, the Two-Item Patient Health Questionnaire, and the Two-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder instrument. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with psychological outcomes.

Results: A total of 503 HCPs successfully completed the survey, and 493 agreed to enroll in the study: 411 (83.4%) physicians, 323 (64.2%) women, and 271 (55%) with a second-line work position. A significant proportion of HCPs had anxiety (35.7%), depression (35.1%), and insomnia (23.7%). Women, those with a psychiatric history, and those using public transportation had higher proportions for overall symptoms compared with other groups, for example, depression in 44.9% of female participants vs. 18.2% of male participants (p = 0.00). Those with a previous medical history and nurses had more anxiety and insomnia compared with other groups, for example, anxiety in 45.1% of nurses, 36.1% of interns/residents, and 27.5% of attending physicians (p = 0.04). Multivariable logistic regression showed that female gender was a risk factor for all psychological outcomes, whereas psychiatric history was a risk factor for both anxiety and insomnia [odds ratio (OR) = 2.86, 95% CI 1.78–4.60, p = 0.00 for insomnia]. Using protective equipment was associated with a lower risk for depression (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.27–0.62, p = 0.00) and anxiety. Physical activity was also protective against depression and anxiety (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.25–0.67, p = 0.00).

Conclusion: Psychological symptoms are usually overlooked or dismissed by HCPs, although the COVID-19 pandemic played a major role in exacerbating this burden. Prompt psychological support should be endorsed and simple measures, such as physical activity and ensuring the availability of personal protective equipment, are paramount to improve mental health outcomes and the quality of care provided to patients.

Gender Difference in the Relationship of Physical Activity and Subjective Happiness Among Chinese University Students

Background: Gender makes a difference in health and physical activity (PA). This research aimed to identify the gender difference in the relationship of PA and subjective happiness among Chinese university students.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Shanghai Jiao Tong University from July 7 to 17 in 2021, using an anonymous online self-report questionnaire. The questionnaire included the Chinese version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21(DASS-21). The demographic and health-related factors were also reported. Linear regression was carried out to identify the relationship of PA and subjective happiness.

Findings: In total, 1,512 students (1,108 males and 404 females) from three comprehensive schools completed the survey. The SHS score was 17.20 ± 3.44, and it was 17.00 ± 3.23 in males, and 17.75 ± 3.93 in females, respectively (p < 0.001). There was no gender difference in vigorous, moderate PA, or walk min/week, while female students had longer sedentary behavior hours/day than males. Male students scored higher in each subscale of DASS-21. After controlling for confounders, vigorous PA min/week (β = 0.002, p = 0.002) and sedentary behavior hours/day (β = 0.168, p = 0.005) were significantly positively associated with happiness in male students. In contrast, walk min/week (2= 0.002, p = 0.005) was significantly positively associated with happiness in female students.

Interpretation: This research demonstrated a significant gender difference in the association between PA and happiness. Policymakers and college management should pay more attention to PA programs to promote students’ happiness and mental health status.

Sleep Duration as the Main Indicator of Self-Rated Wellness and Health among Healthcare Workers Involved in the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective: This study was performed during the COVID-19 pandemic to better understand the indicators of self-rated wellness and health among healthcare workers. Methods: Sleep pattern, mood status, nutritional condition, physical activity, habits and the subjective wellness and health index of the healthcare workers of a university affiliated hospital were surveyed. Paired t-tests were performed to compare the participants’ quality of life before and after the outbreak of COVID-19. Multivariable linear regression models with a backward elimination stepwise process determined the parameters that significantly correlated with self-reported wellness and health. Results: Of the 200 healthcare workers who participated in this study, 119 (60%) were female and 81 (40%) were male, with a mean (SD) age of 28.8 (5.9) years. We found that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed many lifestyle factors compared to the pre-pandemic states. The scores of sleep quality, mood status, pre-planned physical activity and social activity were reduced by 30%, 40%, 50% and 70%, respectively. The average night sleep duration before the pandemic was 7 h and 22 min, whereas during the pandemic it decreased to 6 h and 44 min, a debt of 38 min in sleep duration every night. As found by multivariable regression modelling, self-reported wellness and health before the pandemic period was associated with wake-up time, mood status, physical activity and diet. During the pandemic period, in addition to these variables, night sleep duration (β = 0.049, p = 0.049) and nap duration (β = 0.009, p = 0.01) were left in the final multivariable model and correlated significantly with the wellness and health index. Conclusion: COVID-19 has detrimentally affected healthcare workers’ well-being and quality of life. Sleep duration was the main factor correlated with subjective wellness and health index during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Elevating Subjective Well-Being Through Physical Exercises: An Intervention Study

Background: Physical activity is associated with higher levels of subjective well-being. However, little research has been conducted in naturalistic conditions with a longitudinal design. In the current study, we aimed to examine whether regular activity initiation can impact happiness, life satisfaction, and self-esteem 4 weeks later. Methods: The sample (N = 217, 124 women) was divided into three groups based on level of physical activity (active people, beginners, and inactive people). The participants completed measures of happiness, satisfaction with life, self-esteem, and a survey on physical activity. Ninety-five of participants who completed the same set of measures sent by email after 4 weeks were included in the analyses. Results: The study showed a strong relationship between subjective well-being and physical activity. Active people showed higher levels of happiness and self-esteem compared to beginners and inactive people and a higher level of life satisfaction than inactive people. Furthermore, after 4 weeks of exercising, beginners revealed greater life satisfaction and happiness compared to the baseline. Conclusion: These findings confirm that regular physical activity leads to higher levels of well-being. It seems that even a short engagement in physical activity (4 weeks) may contribute to an increase in subjective well-being.

Sedentary Behavior and Happiness: The Mediation Effects of Social Capital

Background and Objectives

This study aimed to examine the associations between time spent in 6 different domains of sedentary behavior and happiness and whether social capital mediated such associations among adults and older adults living in a rural area of Japan.

Research Design and Methods

Cross-sectional data from 3,357 participants (mean age: 60 ± 16 years) were used. 6 domains of sedentary behavior, happiness, and social capital were assessed using a self-report questionnaire. Age-stratified multivariable linear regression models adjusted for covariates were used to examine the associations between 6 domains of sedentary behavior and happiness. For relationships where the direct effect was significant, we tested the mediating effects of 2 social capital measures.

Results

Among both adults and older adults, more time spent viewing television was significantly associated with lower happiness scores, and more time spent engaging in other leisure activities was significantly associated with higher happiness scores. In addition, more time spent using cell phones and computers was significantly associated with lower happiness scores among the adults. Engaging in activities with neighbors significantly mediated the relationship between other leisure activities and happiness in the adults and older adults, and between television viewing and happiness in the older adults.

Discussion and Implications

Our findings indicated that less television viewing and more mentally active sedentary behavior (e.g., talking with others and engaging in hobbies) were associated with greater happiness. One aspect of social capital, engaging in activities with neighbors, acts as a potential mediator for relationships between sedentary behavior and happiness.

Physical Activity and Mental Health Among Physicians in Tertiary Psychiatric Hospitals: A National Crosssectional Survey in China

This study aimed to examine the level of mental health and its correlates, particularly physical activity (PA) frequency, among physicians in tertiary psychiatric hospitals. In a national crosssectional survey, 4,520 physicians nested in 41 tertiary psychiatric hospitals from 29 provinces completed the online questionnaire. Their mean age was 38.5 ± 8.6 years, and 41.86% of physicians were men. More than one-third (35.24%) of physicians reported no PA in the past month, and only 21.88% reported happiness. Only 55.15 and 58.10% of the physicians reported normal status of depression and anxiety, respectively. In the adjusted multivariable ordinal logistic regression, higher PA frequency was associated with depression, anxiety, and happiness, except those who reported PA almost every day. Programs that aim to increase PA may promote the mental health of physicians in tertiary psychiatric hospitals.

Older gay men's engagement with physical activity: A scoping review

Older gay men experience an elevated prevalence of adverse health conditions that may be compounded by age-related deterioration. Some of these conditions may be ameliorated by regular adherence to physical activity (PA). However, many gay men participate in less PA than their age-matched heterosexual counterparts. With a focus on gay men aged 60 and over, the aims of this review were to examine the evidence for older gay men's engagement with PA and the research approaches used to describe this group. A systematic search of six academic databases (Academic Search Premier, Cinahl, PubMed, Sport Discus, APA PsychInfo and APA PsychArticles) generated 23 papers from 1970 to 2020 that focused on older gay men's engagement with PA. Although surveys were well represented in the literature, further studies utilising qualitative methodological frameworks have the potential to inform targeted interventional programs aimed at reducing less health disparities. The value of PA in older adults lies principally in improved performance of activities of daily living, independent living, increased longevity, decreased cognitive decline and improved mental well-being.