Physical activity and mental health among university students: a quantitative analysis of gender differences and implications for depression, anxiety, and stress / Danial Haikal Zulkefli and Muhd Asraf Zulzali

Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and stress, are significant global challenges, particularly among university students coping with academic pressures [1]. Physical activity has been widely recognized as an effective intervention, improving mental well-being and reducing psychological distress, making it crucial for enhancing students’ quality of life [2]. This study investigates physical activity levels, mental health status, gender-based differences, and the impact of physical activity towards mental health. This study employed a quantitative, non-experimental design using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 333 randomly selected FSR students [3]. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-7) measured physical activity levels, while the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) assessed mental health status [4]. Descriptive statistics were applied to assess activity levels and mental health, while regression and t-tests analyzed impact and gender differences [5].