MENTAL HEALTH, LIFESTYLE, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND OBESITY AWARENESS: A STUDY AMONG HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

The well-being and health of an individual are at risk when they are obese, which is characterized as an excessive buildup of body fat combined with a lack of fitness or physical activity. There are various factors that contribute to this issue. Therefore, the aims of this paper are (1) to understand the level of awareness of obesity among students, (2) to determine the relationship between mental health conditions and obesity, (3) to determine the relationship between lifestyle and obesity, (4) to determine the relationship between physical activity and obesity, and (5) to determine the most significant factors that lead to obesity awareness among students. A total of 80 questionnaires were distributed to higher education students in the Northern region of Malaysia. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were employed to determine the relationships and examine the most significant factors influencing obesity awareness. The findings revealed that all mental health, lifestyle, and physical activity were related to the dependent variable, with mental health emerging as the most significant factor. The results indicated a high level of obesity awareness among higher education students, signifying their awareness of this issue. The findings of this study would be valuable for the young generations to further improve the present lifestyle and reduce the incidence of obesity.