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INTERACTION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, MENTAL HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE: A STUDY ON UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN PAKISTAN
Authors: BAZILA AKBAR KHAN, MARY HASSANDRA
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In Pakistani society an elevated level of physical inactivity and psychological distress has been identified lately. Nevertheless, most of the studies examining the association between physical activity and psychological health are limited in reference to the population in Pakistan especially in consideration to University students. University students are considered to be at a risk stage due to academic stress and physiological changes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the associations between physical activity, quality of life and psychological health related among university students in Pakistan. Data was collected from 378 participants from seven universities in Pakistan (265 females, 112 males). The age ranges from 18-48 years, (M=22.7, SD=3.97), mostly within the age range of 19-24. General Health Questionnaire-12, SF-36 quality of life and International physical activity questionnaire were administered with the help of class teachers, in their classroom. Data was analyzed by using bi-variate correlation on SPSS. Results indicated a linear positive relationship of physical activity with mental health component summary r=0.12, p<0.05 and a negative association with psychological distress r=-0.12, p<0.05. Conversely, psychological distress was negatively related to overall health related quality of life r =-0.32, p<0.01 and its subscales; mental component summary r=-0.31, p<0.01 and physical component summary r=-0.27, p<0.01. However, the variability of results was revealed in consideration to the intensity of PA. Only vigorous PA and walking significantly correlated with psychological distress, mental health component summary and overall quality of life. A further research is suggested where the interaction of mental health and PA intensity is assessed through experimental study.