The Investigation of the Relationship between Sleep Quality, Physical Activity, and Dietary Pattern with the Mental Health of University of Kashan Students

Background and aim: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep quality, physical activity, and dietary pattern with the mental health of University of Kashan students. It has been concluded in various studies that unhealthy behavioral habits, in addition to physical illnesses, have a noticeable role in increasing the prevalence and intensity of mental illnesses. Methods: This research is practical in terms of purpose and relational in terms of research type. The statistical population of the study included about ۸۰۵۹ students of University of Kashan in ۱۴۰۰. A sample of ۱۱۲ individuals was selected by the available sampling method and based on Tabachnick and Fidell formulas. Research tools included the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), Sharkey physical activity index (SPAI), and symptom checklist ۹۰ (SCL۹۰). The reliability of the questionnaires was confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha. SPSS ۲۲ was used to analyze obtained data. Results: The findings indicate that higher sleep quality, physical activity, and frequent intake of dietary supplements have a significant negative effect on the symptoms of mental illness. Conclusion: These results show that paying attention to students' health behaviors may reduce the burden of mental illnesses. It is suggested that universities improve students' mental health by teaching them about sleep hygiene, principles of healthy eating, and providing online physical activity programs.

Keywords:

Mental Health , Dietary Pattern , Sleep Quality , Physical activity