Physical Activity and How it Affects the Mental Health of College Professors
Disciplines
Public Health Education and Promotion
Abstract (300 words maximum)
This study presents an examination of the correlation between physical activity and mental health among college professors. Physical activity is defined as bodily movement that’s produced by the skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure, it can include swimming, walking, running etc. Engaging in consistent physical activity has proven to provide numerous health benefits, one of those benefits consist of maintaining a positive mental health. The World Health Organization defines mental health as a “state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and can make a contribution to his or her community”. With all, there remains a gap when understanding the relationship between physical activity as it relates to the mental health of certain professions such as college professors. This study provides insights into the potential benefits of physical activity as it relates to the mental well-being of college professors.
Peer reviewed articles discussing previous research of correlation between physical activity and mental health was used to analyze the gap in physical activity and mental health as it relates to college professors. A sample of college professors were selected, and data was collected through surveys. International Physical Activity form (IPAQ) was used to measure physical activity level of the respondents and the Mental Health Inventory (MHI) was used to measure their mental health. Statistical analyses were conducted to examine the correlation between physical activity and mental health outcomes.
The overall findings suggest that college professors participating in physical activity consistently have a significant positive impact regarding their mental health.
This study highlights a correlation between physical activity and the mental health of college professors. Participating in physical activity may lower levels of stress, increase overall mood, reduce levels of anxiety and depression.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
WCHHS - Health Promotion and Physical Education
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Mari-Amanda Dyal
Physical Activity and How it Affects the Mental Health of College Professors
This study presents an examination of the correlation between physical activity and mental health among college professors. Physical activity is defined as bodily movement that’s produced by the skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure, it can include swimming, walking, running etc. Engaging in consistent physical activity has proven to provide numerous health benefits, one of those benefits consist of maintaining a positive mental health. The World Health Organization defines mental health as a “state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and can make a contribution to his or her community”. With all, there remains a gap when understanding the relationship between physical activity as it relates to the mental health of certain professions such as college professors. This study provides insights into the potential benefits of physical activity as it relates to the mental well-being of college professors.
Peer reviewed articles discussing previous research of correlation between physical activity and mental health was used to analyze the gap in physical activity and mental health as it relates to college professors. A sample of college professors were selected, and data was collected through surveys. International Physical Activity form (IPAQ) was used to measure physical activity level of the respondents and the Mental Health Inventory (MHI) was used to measure their mental health. Statistical analyses were conducted to examine the correlation between physical activity and mental health outcomes.
The overall findings suggest that college professors participating in physical activity consistently have a significant positive impact regarding their mental health.
This study highlights a correlation between physical activity and the mental health of college professors. Participating in physical activity may lower levels of stress, increase overall mood, reduce levels of anxiety and depression.