Search

In the context of college students’ depression, narrative therapy is beneficial to explore and challenge negative self-perceptions and beliefs contributing to their depressive symptoms. Narrative therapy was conducted through telecounseling using a video-conference platform with nine sessions for a female university student in her mid-20s with depressive mood, low energy, and suicidal thoughts, resulting in delays in her academic task fulfillment. She hardly finished her fieldwork reports and had not started her thesis after receiving a study period extension when majority of her classmates had graduated. The intervention was aimed to change client’s depression narrative to more empowered preferred stories shaping her new identity so she could graduate from her program. During the intervention process, the participant can finish her academic obligations and graduate before the due date. Discussion about the case is provided for practitioners interested in the narrative approach, supported by the worksheets and therapy stages explanation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the physical health of college students is increasingly receiving attention, their autonomous fitness behavior has not been thoroughly investigated. This narrative review conducted a comprehensive literature search through databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), reviewing studies published up to December 2023. We explored the constructs of autonomy, fitness behavior, and agency, and discussed their integration within the autonomous fitness model. Our findings indicate a lack of comprehensive studies exploring the multifaceted factors influencing autonomous fitness behaviors. Future research should strive to deepen conceptual understanding and further explore the complex dynamics of the transition from autonomy to persistence, employing technological and interdisciplinary methodological perspectives to enhance understanding and promote sustainable fitness habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Millions of people of all ages around the world are overweight or obese. Although many try dieting to lose their excess weight, the success rate is 20%, and only 2% are able to control their weight. This process becomes a vicious cycle of constantly gaining and losing weight, which is called yo-yo syndrome. Previous studies have found that obesity awareness was low in samples of university students. The present study aimed to determine the reasons that obese university students develop yo-yo syndrome by analyzing their dietary histories. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study applied a phenomenological research method. The study population consisted of nine students in various faculties at Ordu University. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and demographic information, such as age and gender, was collected to determine the number of diets that were started and stopped. Data were collected from the Faculty of Education. Results: The following themes emerged from the data analysis: defense mechanisms in the categories of rationalization, denial, and projection; boredom in the category of boredom; health in the categories of fear of disease and death anxiety; social-physical anxiety in the categories of bodily discontent and mockery; and social anxiety in the categories of cultural pressure, peer relationships, and close relationships. Conclusion: The reasons that the university students in the study sample developed yo-yo syndrome were identified according to the categories and themes that emerged from the data analysis. Based on these findings, it has been suggested that psycho-education, psychiatric treatment, and follow-ups would be beneficial in treating yo-yo syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study purpose. This study examines the effect of a 16-week interval progressive circuit training program on the skill and health-related fitness of overweight university students. Materials and methods. A total of 72 university students underwent health and skill-related fitness tests before and after a 16-week progressive circuit training program. Paired sample t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to determine differences between pre- and post-tests. Results. Significant decrease in BMI, cardiovascular endurance, agility, speed and reaction time was observed after a 16 week progressive circuit training program (p ≤ 0.05). In contrast, strength, flexibility, coordination and power increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05). The 16-week interval progressive circuit training programme has a positive effect on the physical fitness among the study participants. Conclusions. The findings encourage further research into optimized training protocols, long-term sustainability of improvements, and tailored applications for specific population groups, ultimately advancing our understanding of the multifaceted benefits of interval progressive circuit training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Sport & Exercise / Türk Spor ve Egzersiz Dergisi is the property of Turkish Journal of Sport & Exercise and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Interpersonal violence is a serious public health issue, particularly in the young adult population. College women are more likely to experience interpersonal violence than the general population; college women with disabilities are at particularly high risk of victimization. Despite this reality, screening rates for interpersonal violence in college health centers remain low, and college women, both disabled and not, report unsatisfactory interactions with college health providers after an interpersonal violence experience. We provide suggestions for nurse practitioners working in college health which will assist them in their endeavors to screen college women, specifically college women with a disability, for interpersonal violence and to respond to the outcomes of those screenings using a trauma and disability-informed practice lens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite strenuous efforts to increase vaccination rates against human papillomavirus (HPV), the rate of vaccination remains low in the U.S. The COVID-19 pandemic poses an additional challenge to HPV vaccination. This study aimed to explore the factors that contribute to HPV vaccination among Asian immigrant college students, based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), with HPV vaccine literacy and HPV vaccine hesitancy as additional constructs. This cross-sectional survey used convenience sampling, with133 Asian immigrant college students from New York City as study participants. Data were collected online using self-reported measures of the following study variables: HPV vaccine literacy, attitudes, subjective norms, self-efficacy, vaccine hesitancy, vaccination intention, and HPV vaccination. The data were analyzed using path analysis. Vaccine literacy and vaccination intention directly affected HPV vaccination. Vaccine subjective norms and literacy directly affected vaccination intention. Moreover, vaccine attitudes and self-efficacy directly and negatively affected vaccine hesitancy. These results indicate the importance of developing a multifaceted intervention that considers vaccine literacy and subjective norms to promote HPV vaccination of Asian immigrant college students. Interventions to decrease vaccine hesitancy during the COVID-19 pandemic should focus on improving positive attitudes and self-efficacy toward HPV vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on both physical activity (PA) and mental health is important to demonstrate the need for interventions. This study examined the apparent impact of the pandemic on college students' PA, perceived stress, and depressive symptoms. Methods: From 2015 through 2020, data were collected at the beginning and end of the spring semester at a large Northeastern US university via an online survey assessing student demographics, PA, perceived stress, and depressive symptoms. Mixed ANOVA examined differences in PA and mental health changes over the spring semester between "normal" and COVID-19 circumstances. Two-way ANOVA examined the interaction between circumstance and changes in PA in relation to changes in mental health. Results: Participants (n = 1019) were predominately women and non- Hispanic white. There was a significant decline in PA and an increase in perceived stress under COVID-19, but not normal, circumstances and a significant increase in depressive symptoms under COVID-19, but not normal, circumstances among women. Conclusions: A significant decline in PA and mental health among college students occurred under COVID-19 circumstances, and PA did not appear to protect against deterioration in mental health. Proactive and innovative policies, programs, and practices to promote student health and well-being must be explored immediately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Eurasian Journal of Sport Sciences & Education / Avrasya Spor Bilimleri ve Eğitim Dergisi is the property of Eurasian Journal of Sport Sciences & Education and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aim. The aim of the study was to highlight the physical condition status of young male students after the pandemic period, in the first year after online courses versus the second year. Methods of research. The research methods used in this paper were: scientific documentation, Paired Samples t - test, statistical mathematics and graphical method. Aerobic (cardiorespiratory) capacity or aerobic fitness was assessed by the 2-Km Walk Test, which is very effective for measuring this parameter. The research was carried out on the football field, in the open air within the UPB Complex, the initial testing was carried out in November 2021, as soon as the university courses physically started, and the final testing took place in November 2022. Results. The average aerobic fitness index of the students is lower in the initial testing (after the online courses) compared to the final testing. Conclusions. We can conclude that the pandemic period led to an awareness of the acute need for exercise among young people as a means of combating the "technostress" generated by exclusively online courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on polyvictimization (i.e., experiencing multiple types of victimization) suggests that its effects are diverse and may be more severe than the effects of single-type victimization. Few studies have focused on polyvictimization among college students and how its experience may shape academic life. Thus, this study examines how polyvictimization (i.e., sexual, violent, and stalking—in the last 12 months) among college students relates to academic performance. Participants (N = 67,972) were drawn from the Spring 2019 administration of the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment II. Findings show that polyvictims' grade point averages are lower than nonpolyvictims and polyvictims have higher odds of having their academic performance suffer connected to a variety of factors (mental health, physical health, and substance use). Students who experienced three types of victimization (compared to fewer) had the highest odds of having their academic performance harmed. These findings suggest extra attention be paid to polyvictimization as it relates to factors that shape academic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the prevalence of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) vaccination, the level of COVID-19 fear, and associated factors among university students. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study participated by university students from Maltepe University, Türkiye, between September 23 and November 26, 2021. An online questionnaire form was used in the study due to the pandemic. The questionnaire included sociodemographic and related COVID-19 characteristics and the fear of COVID-19 scale (FCV-19S). Results: A total of 3216 university students, 2276 (70.8%) female, participated in this study. Three thousand ninety-two (96.1%) were vaccinated against COVID-19. The FCV-19S scores of those vaccinated against COVID-19 were 18.0±7.2, while the FVS scores of those who were not vaccinated were 15.7±8.3 (p=0.001). When the factors affecting vaccination with COVID-19 were evaluated by regression analysis, it was determined that the history of COVID-19 infection (OR=1.837, 95% CI=1.173-2.876, and p=0.008), FCV-19S (OR=1.041, 95% CI=1.014-1.070, and p=0.003), and recommending the COVID-19 vaccine to others (OR=24.585, 95% CI=15.658--38.602, and p<0.001) had an effect on vaccination. Conclusion: This study revealed that the overall vaccination frequency among university students is >96%, with different hesitancy frequency among university departments. Medical and health science students have the lowest frequency of vaccine hesitancy and lowest fear levels, suggesting that they know the COVID-19 process, and its consequences, and have accurate information about vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID 19 pandemic has impacted sexual health in a variety of ways. The purpose of this research was to examine the ways in which college students (attending a university providing primarily online curriculum during fall 2020 and spring 2021 semesters) perceive the pandemic influencing their sexual health and lives. Participants were undergraduate students (N = 66) at a mid-sized Western university recruited during the beginning of the spring 2021 semester. Participants completed an anonymous online survey. A Thematic Analysis of responses to two open-ended questions asking about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their sexual health and lives was conducted. Several important themes were identified during this analysis: (1) Sexual activity and quality, (2) Relationship dynamics, (3) Self-focus, (4) New partners, (5) Sexual healthcare, (6) No change. Findings have implications for promoting sexual health for students during times when the majority of instruction is conducted online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Health Sciences / Türkiye Klinikleri Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acibadem Saglik Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Acibadem University Medical School and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Exercise is Medicine® on Campus (EIM-OC) calls upon campuses to promote physical activity (PA) through education, outreach, assessment of PA levels, and referral programs. Twenty-eight EIM-OC supervisors completed a survey examining the characteristics of existing EIM-OC programs. Survey results identify participation from and collaboration among Health and Counseling Services, Campus Recreation, Wellness and Kinesiology departments. The majority of responding EIM-OC programs include special events and outreach activities. Funding and staffing for EIM-OC programs comes primarily from Kinesiology departments but often in conjunction with Campus Recreation. Referral programs are primarily targeted at students, who are referred for sedentary behavior or existing mental or physical conditions. Referral benefits include waived or reduced fees, fitness and behavioral assessments, and individualized or group training. The majority of campuses indicate that their EIM-OC program has improved relationships among involved units and provides new opportunities for students as either participants or leaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The debate on whether kinesiology students should undergo fitness testing is controversial. Some are strong proponents of fitness testing, while others are in strong opposition. As advocates for fitness testing among kinesiology majors, we aimed to assess the fitness levels of Exercise Science and Physical Education Teacher Education majors and evaluate current physical education teacher education (PETE) fitness criterion. One hundred and sixteen participants (males N = 49; females N = 67) underwent health-related fitness assessments. 37% of males and 51% of females met PETE's fitness criteria. Both groups performed significantly better in body fat percentage and upper body strength than PETE's acceptable (average) standards; however, most were significantly lower than target (above average) standards. Presented are fitness passing criteria for PETE majors and fitness reporting that aids in improved fitness tracking and accountability. We also highlight the need for NASPE and SHAPE America to clearly define fitness expectations for PETE majors and encourage other kinesiology faculty to consider implementing fitness testing in their programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese culture contains rich positive thoughts of mental transformation, mentcal Huagong (MHG: 心理化功) is the embodiment of people's quality of psychological transformation. MHG refers to the Gongfu (功夫) or mental competence that transforms negative or passive into positive or advantageous mind, which is an indispensable quality for contemporary people, especially college students, to find favorable position for the use of their abilities (用武之地) in society. In order to understand the level of college students' MHG, 586 college students from ordinary universities in Guangdong Province were tested. By item analysis and exploratory factor analysis on sample 1, confirmatory factor analysis on sample 2, college students' mental Huagong scale (CSMHGS: 大学生心理化功量表) was compiled finally. The result shows that CSMHGS is composed of 35 items and 5 factors, and the cumulative variance contribution rate is 56.145%. The result of confirmatory factor analysis shows that the 5-factor model fitted well. Cronbach α coefficient of the total scale is 0.854, and the reliability coefficient of each dimension of the scale is between 0.809~0.856. It is concluded that CSMHGS has good reliability and validity, and can be used as a measuring tool for the study of college students' MHG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Sitting over a prolonged period not only creates physiological health problem and cardiovascular diseases, but also increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. The goal of this study is to determine whether there is a link between thoracic spine mobility and prolonged sitting, and the objectives are, to assess whether there is a connection between the length of time spent sitting and the mobility of the thoracic spine and examine the effect of extended sitting on the mobility of the thoracic spine. Methodology: The inclusion and exclusion criteria were checked on patients who were willing to participate in the study, they will provide an overview of the study before measuring thoracic mobility using methods such as the sitting rotation test (bar in front), in order to limit movement in participants lower extremities during thoracic rotation, a small ball was placed between their knees and a PVC bar with a tape marker at the halfway also used, which helps to fix the upper extremity. Using revised Oswestry to measure thoracic disability levels, the values were evaluated. Results: The statistical analysis showed that those who spend more time in sitting had limited thoracic rotation range of motion. Also, the questionnaire of thoracic pain showed pain and high disability index who spend more time in sitting and travelling. Conclusion: In people who spend more than 7 to 8 hours sitting, the study's findings showed that their thoracic spine mobility was decreased. According to the questionnaire, people who spend a lot of time sitting and travelling during the course of a day as well as those who experience discomfort or restriction when performing ADLs had a high disability index for thoracic spine pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several students' academic careers were affected by the COVID 19 pandemic over the world, and it even caused a considerable disruption to the education industry, which intensified psychological distress. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of lifestyle changes happened in online learning by use of the Euro Quality of life 5D 5L questionnaire among college students during covid 19 pandemic. Methodology: About 670 college students were included. A pre-structured questionnaire was used to collect information. Based upon the selection criteria, the participants were selected for the study. Participants were asked to fill the Euro quality of life 5D 5L questionnaire. The evaluator was assigned to score each question. A demographic pre structured questionnaire containing details of personal data and impacts on quality of life was collected. Result: Mobility, self-care, regular activities, anxiety/depression and pain/discomfort are all heavily influenced, according to the statistical research. Results indicated that the overall health of the students were affected as the reported negative health (77.98%) was higher than the positive health (22.01%). Conclusion: In this study, students taking college level professional courses in online during covid 19 pandemic have seen a high prevalence of effect in their physical, emotional welling and decreased in overall health have been explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies reporting the prevalence of headaches in Croatia have methodological differences that make it difficult to consolidate their results. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of the most common primary headaches in a student population using the standardized HARDSHIP questionnaire (in Croatian). Methods: This cross-sectional epidemiological study collected data regarding the 1-year prevalence of headaches in a student population using the diagnostic algorithm of the HARDSHIP questionnaire. The chi-squared test was used to analyze gender differences, and Cramer's V was used for effect size interpretation. Results: The questionnaire was administered to 1350 university students enrolled in health profession programs (81.3% female; 18.7% male; average age: 23 years). The 1-year prevalence of migraine was 38.9% (male: female ratio, 1:1.5), and that of tension-type headache was 35.6% (male: female ratio, 1:0.9). Overall, 91.0% of participants responded positively to the question regarding the incidence of headache in the past 12 months. Conclusions: We report a high prevalence of primary headaches among students of health professions in Croatia. The differences in prevalence may be attributed to various sociocultural, geographical, genetic, and methodological differences. Population-specific studies may facilitate a more accurate assessment of headache prevalence and enable more effective targeting of public health activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental wellness is a large concern on college campuses, especially since the outbreak of COVID-19 and its resulting negative impact on student social and mental health. We tested the effectiveness of mindfulness activities on perceived stress levels, mood, and well-being of university students. We organized a campus event for students at Southern Utah University involving the opportunity to participate in four different mindfulness activities. Before participating, students completed a selfreported intake survey, and afterwards, they completed a post-activity survey. After one week of practicing a mindfulness activity on their own time, students completed a post-week survey. Two mindfulness activities were associated with an immediate reduction of perceived stress, increase in mood, and increase in well-being: coloring pages and progressive muscle relaxation. Longer-term reduction of perceived stress and increase in well-being also occurred in students who completed coloring pages. In addition, longer-term reduction of perceived stress occurred in students who completed progressive muscle relaxation. Mood did not significantly change from intake after completing any of the activities for one week. We were able to demonstrate specific accessible, affordable mindfulness activities that are likely to help students with stress, mood, and overall well-being. We recommend that these activity types be employed on college campuses on a regular basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although physical activity (PA) among adults is associated with health benefits, only one-third of young adults meet PA recommendations. Examining if the type of PA has an impact on individuals' psychological responses may impact future interventions and PA rates among young adults. Aims: This study examined affective and other psychological responses to a class of high intensity interval training (HIIT) or moderate intensity continuous training (MICT). Methods: Participants (n = 41) were active 18-25-year-old college students randomized to participate in HIIT or MICT. HIIT was higher intensity and included more breaks from PA relative to MICT. Both classes were 30-minutes that included a warm-up and cool down. Psychological factors included affect, enjoyment, and exercise-feeling. Results and Conclusions: Participants in the HIIT condition reported lower positive affect and higher physical exhaustion during PA than the MICT condition. However, there was no effect of group assignment on enjoyment, tranquility, positive engagement, and revitalization. This study provides some evidence that HIIT may result in lower levels of positive affect and more exhaustion during PA; however, HIIT does not appear to impact enjoyment. Future studies should examine affect in HIIT relative to MICT through the lens of dual-mode theory over a multi-week intervention. Additionally, HIIT is often discussed as requiring less time relative to traditional workouts while experiencing similar positive health benefits, so future studies should examine affect during HIIT vs. MICT in shorter classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the theory of student involvement, the purpose of this study was to compare sport club participation and health-related outcomes, as well as the association between these two variables by sex and academic classification among college students. Participants were 127 sport club members recruited from a university in the southwestern United States. MANOVA analyses indicated that males reported more recreation center visits, greater sport club satisfaction, and lower subjective vitality than females; freshmen reported more recreation center visits and higher grade point averages (GPAs) than nonfreshmen. Canonical correlation analyses revealed that sport club satisfaction was positively related to GPA and subjective vitality, and sport club memberships were positively related to body mass index in the overall sample. Group differences were found in the direction and magnitude of these relationships. Thus, campus recreation professionals should consider sex and freshman status of sport club participants to target their diverse needs for optimal health-related outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Forward head posture is the common faulty posture of the neck that has been widely reported among teenagers and young population as theykeeptheir head forward unknowingly while using smartphones and laptops which affects the head-neck-shoulder mechanics. Moreover, in physiotherapy the nature of the profession necessitates neck flexion which the students may unaware of. Objective: To find the prevalence of forward head posture and its association with gender, BMI and neck pain among college going students. Methods: This cross-sectional study adopted convenient sampling method. After screening for selection criteria, 150 physiotherapy students studying under the Department of PMR, aged between 18 and 25 years were recruited. Their age, height, weight and BMI were recorded. The CV anglewas assessed using Kinovea software, a photogrammetric method. Participants were asked to mark the intensity of neck pain in Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and who had no neck pain marks zero score. Results: The mean age of the participants was 19.8± 1.42 years. Female students were dominant by 60%.It was found that 63.3% had reduced CV angleand 36.7% had normal CV angle. BMI (p=0.003) had significant association with CV angle. The genderand neck pain had no significant association with CV angle (p>0.05). Conclusion: There was a marked prevalence of FHP among college students. It was significantly associated with weight component of BMI whereasgender and neck pain had no associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the cost of attendance for colleges and universities continue to rise, an increasing number of students are choosing to work while taking classes. Balancing work and school influences students’ mental and physical health, and health behaviors. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between students’ ability to manage work demands, college and life responsibilities, and health outcomes. Through an online survey, data was collected from 2534 college students attending a large university in the Southeast of the United States. Survey questions assessed quality of life and work-life management using the 12-Item Short-Form Health survey (SF-12) and the Work-Life Balance survey, respectively. Results indicated that work status, work hours, work location, sleep, age, class status, gender, and majors are all factors that contribute to work-life balance and quality of life. The findings provide insight on how institutions and employers can address the needs of college students to allow better work-life balance and health management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To assess the healthy eating (HE) knowledge of health students and the factors associated with the university environment. Materials and methods. This was a cross-sectional study of 512 university students (≥ 18 years) enrolled in nine undergraduate health careers. It was conducted from April to November 2017. The Instrument for Assessment of Health Promotion in Universities and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire were used. In addition, we measured weight, height and waist circumference. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out with SPSS version 23.0. Results. We found that most university students from the nine health careers had insufficient knowledge about healthy eating (71.9%; n=368). However, the highest proportion of students with sufficient knowledge was found in the career of nutrition (15.3%; n=22), followed by those in the physical education career (12.5%; n=18). The lowest percentage of students with sufficient knowledge was found in the career of medicine (8.3%; n=12). Multivariate analysis showed that sufficient knowledge about healthy eating was related to participation in healthy eating activities (p=0.012; PR=1.94), participation in activities addressing self-esteem and self-knowledge (p=0.046; PR=0.59) and being overweight (p=0.036; PR=1.53). Conclusion. A low percentage of health students had sufficient knowledge about healthy eating. However, participation in healthy eating, self-esteem and self-knowledge activities at the university managed to improve the level of knowledge. We recommend the development of university projects that include the psychological, food and body triad, thus involving all health careers, with the aim of improving the health and quality of life of university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Effective handwashing practices help prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study examined the knowledge, frequency, and characteristics of handwashing practices among Vietnamese university students. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted on all students enrolling at Phenikaa University in Vietnam. A self-developed questionnaire was used to collect information on the participants' knowledge regarding the effectiveness of handwashing as a COVID-19 preventive measure, the moments for hand hygiene, the most appropriate practices in different situations, and frequency. Results: Among 728 study participants, 460 (63.2%) were from health-related faculties. Almost (97.9%; 713/728) all participants knew that handwashing could protect against the spread of infection, but less than half performed handwashing often in a normal day (47.4%; 345/728), after sneezing or coughing (48.9%; 356/728), and 7.4% (54/728) only washed hands when hands are visibly dirty. Health students used alcohol-based handrub in all situations, including those requiring handwashing with water and soap (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The levels of knowledge regarding the effectiveness of handwashing among study participants are high, but actual practices of handwashing are suboptimal. It is crucial to improve community education to help reinforce correct hand hygiene behaviors, including when to wash hands and which method should be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examines psychological reactance theory (PRT), focusing on the role of threat directness and threat magnitude in the context of a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Students on two college campuses in the United States (N = 374) were informed that their university or the other university (i.e., threat directness manipulation) was considering a vaccinate mandate for the following semester that would or would not include sanctions for noncompliance (i.e., threat magnitude manipulation). Participants experienced significantly greater freedom threat perceptions when the mandate included sanctions compared to when it did not, but freedom threat perception did not differ when the mandate was on their own campus as to the other campus. An interaction effect was also observed in which perceived freedom threat and reactance was greatest among participants receiving an indirect (as opposed to direct) threat with sanctions. Findings are discussed with an emphasis on the theoretical contribution to PRT along with the practical implications for vaccine mandates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mental health and well-being of students entering higher education has become a growing global concern for colleges and universities. Recent research shows anxiety and depression to be the most prevalent forms of mental health concerns amongst college students followed by suicide, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Students’ feelings of social and emotional support for interpersonal relationships are directly related to life satisfaction and is significant to college students’ feelings of success. This study sought to identify the correlates to having perceived social-emotional support (PSES) needs unmet among students attending college in the United States using the 2010 administration of the Behavioral Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a national population-based survey. Based on Baker (2013), we hypothesized that increased risk of PSES needs being unmet would be associated with minority race. Our findings indicate that Hispanic/Latino (COR = 2.11) and Non-Hispanic Other (COR = 1.95) students are more likely to perceive their social-emotional support (SES) needs unmet, while Non-Hispanic Black participants reported no significant difference when compared to Non-Hispanic White participants. In addition, we note that additional research and understanding of social constructs of student identity, campus counselling resources, and creating support network is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) is key in HIV prevention. Young people aged 15–24 years carry a significant burden of new infections globally, but VCT uptake is low in this population. The study assessed university freshmen's willingness to test for HIV now, among others, in a cross-sectional study as university campuses are places of risky sexual behaviour. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on age, sex, marital status, HIV/AIDS knowledge, previous history of testing, willingness to test now, and others. Summary statistics were reported while chi-square and logistic regression methods were used to assess the association between dependent and independent variables with p-values < 0.05 held significant. About 90% (374/412) of respondents had good HIV/AIDS knowledge based on criteria defined by the study, but only 23.3% (96/412) had ever tested and 66.3% (266/401) were willing to test now for HIV. Respondents' sex, previous sexual intercourse, and whether respondents' educational support was from parents or non-parents influenced willingness to test for HIV now. The study highlights what appears to be personal beliefs that can potentially hinder HIV testing and control efforts. Relevant stakeholders must address these gaps to improve testing. Further qualitative investigation will improve understanding of the dynamics informing willingness to test for HIV among young people generally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the effect of modified hold-relax stretching combined with moist heat therapy on hamstring muscle flexibility, EMG activity and strength in college students with hamstring tightness. Materials and Methods: Thirty-eight college students with hamstring tightness were recruited and were divided into two groups. Group 1 received modified hold-relax stretching plus moist heat therapy and Group 2 received moist heat therapy alone, three days a week for four weeks. The knee range of motion (ROM), muscle strength and Electromyography (EMG) activity before and after the treatment protocol were measured. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in demographic characteristics. The knee ROM was significantly different between groups in terms of time (P=0.001) and group (P=0.005) effects, but the strength and EMG activity were not significantly different. Conclusion: The modified hold-relax technique combined with moist heat therapy is effective in increasing hamstring flexibility, but has no significant effect on the muscle EMG activity and strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to analyze the changes in the physical health-related indexes of college students before and after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and to provide a reference for strengthening the attention given to physical health during exceptional periods. Methods: Taking the physical fitness test index data of 2004 college students as the research object, the physical fitness test index and vision index results in 2020 and 2021 were selected for statistical analysis and evaluation. Results: Physical fitness test failure in 2021 increased by 1.34%. The physical fitness test score in 2021 decreased compared to the physical fitness test's overall score in 2020. The results showed statistical significance in the vital capacity (VC), 50 m run, standing long jump (SLJ), sit and reach (SR), endurance quality (800/1000 m run), vision index, left eye vision index, and right eye vision index tests. However, there were no significant changes in body mass index (BMI) and strength quality (pull-ups/1 min sit-ups). Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, changes in college students' lifestyles have had varying degrees of negative impact on their physical functions, physical fitness, and athletic ability. These effects may be further exacerbated, leading to weakened immunity, increased risk of chronic diseases, and increased risk of damage to the body's various organs and tissues. Colleges and universities, families, and relevant departments should actively take effective measures to promote college students' physical activity (PA) and to improve their physical condition and quality of life during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This exploratory study applied constructs of self-determination theory to assess college students exercise motivation and to determine the influence on exercise within active college students. Students included 24 college students (12 normal weight, 12 overweight) currently meeting national exercise recommendations. Surveys and semistructured interviews were used to assess exercise motivation. Descriptive statistics and MANOVA were used to analyze survey results. Horizontalization was used to analyze interview responses. It was found that the majority of students were extrinsically motivated for exercise regardless of BMI or gender. Identified regulation was found to be the most common form of motivation. Extrinsic motivation may be a key determinant for increasing exercise and enhancing utilization of campus recreation facilities among undergraduate students. Future efforts should consider the inclusion of extrinsic motivation (e.g., to look good, improve health) in communication strategies and program development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health and student success outcomes are often thought to be associated with campus recreation participation. Thus, decision makers at the university level are interested in the relationship between campus recreation participation, grade point average (GPA), and student engagement. Previous research has called for a clearer understanding of how campus recreation is meaningful for first-year university students and its potential influences on GPA. This study explored the influence of first-year students' campus recreation participation, GPA, and facets of student engagement. First-year university students (N = 171) were surveyed. Demographic characteristics, GPA, and level of engagement on five scales were assessed. Results showed that GPA positively influenced those who participated in campus recreation on four facets of engagement. Results may help academic administrators to target efforts toward making the transition from high school to university easier. Promoting campus recreation participation may be effective for strengthening students' level of engagement and result in positive success outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is critical for maintaining a healthy weight, although little is known about psychological barriers to maintaining MVPA in at-risk groups. Identifying characteristics associated with poor MVPA maintenance in obesity prevention programs could improve participant outcomes. Methods: Toward this end, we examined predictors of MVPA in an obesity prevention trial for college students at risk for weight gain (n = 333; 72% female, mean BMI = 23.4 kg/m2). Participants engaged in 1 of 3 weight control interventions and in 4 assessments over 12-month follow-up (ie, measured height/weight, self-reports of psychosocial characteristics, 4 days of accelerometer wear). Results: Multilevel modeling analyses showed that across conditions, participants decreased total MVPA minutes per week over 12 months (B = -5.48, P < .01). Baseline self-report scores for both impulsiveness and cognitive dissonance regarding engaging in unhealthy behaviors negatively predicted MVPA over time. Participants higher (vs. lower) in baseline impulsiveness (B = -6.89, P = .03) and dissonance (B = -4.10, P = .04) began the study with more MVPA minutes, but showed sharper declines over time. Conclusions: Targeted MVPA-focused intervention for students who show elevated impulsiveness and cognitive dissonance may improve both MVPA and weight control outcomes for these individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College students are at a higher risk for developing body image issues than any other age group (Attwood, 2012). However, empirical research focused on high-risk behaviors in collegiate recreation (CR) is lacking. Therefore, this study served as follow-up to the Shepard, Barnes, Click, and Peden (2011) seminal research which centered on overtraining (over exercise) and eating disorders in CR. A random sample (N = 71) of National Intramural and Recreational Sports (NIRSA) fitness and wellness professionals from CR departments across North America participated in the 2016 study compared with 128 participants in 2011. Statistical significance testing (p < .05) indicated that the difference in sample size between the two studies was not significant. Ninety-four percent of CR professionals agreed or strongly agreed that having NIRSA supported best practices for addressing overtraining would be helpful compared with 96% in 2011. Similarly, 92% of CR professionals agreed or strongly agreed that NIRSA supported best practices for eating disorders would be helpful compared with 96% in 2011. Additional findings are discussed. Recommendations are provided and meant to serve as a foundation for development of best practices between NIRSA and other professional organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Exergaming play is associated with positive health benefits and increased engagement in physical activity outcomes in players. Research also indicates that factors such as enjoyment and entertainment drive users' exergame activities. However, despite advances in the area, little is known about whether health consideration and physical activity impact college students' exergaming behavior. Method: A cross-sectional online survey of open-ended and fixed questions was completed by 403 college students (Mage = 20.02, SD = 2.3; Range: 17–35; 73.2% female) from a large southwestern university. Descriptive analyses and structural equation modeling techniques were used to draw insights from the data. Results: Among the participants, nearly 87.6% of them reported participating in exergaming behavior. Both measurement and structural models showed good model fits. Health consideration (Std.β =.30, p <.01) and leisure-time physical activity (Std.β =.28, p <.01) were positively associated with exergaming behavior while health consideration was not significantly associated with leisure-time physical activity (Std.β =.05, p =.38). The mediation analysis revealed that the indirect effect from health consideration to exergaming behavior through leisure-time physical activity was not statistically significant (Std.β =.01, p =.38). Leisure-time physical activity could not mediate the relationship between health consideration and exergaming behavior. Conclusions: By pointing out the important role of health consideration and physical activity in college students' exergaming play, findings of this study can help exergame developers and gamification interventionists to design more effective programs and, in turn, facilitate positive intervention outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early detection in the prevention of addictive behaviors remains a complex question in practice for most first-line health care workers (HCWs). Several prevention measures have successfully included a screening stage followed by a brief intervention in case of risk-related use or referral to an addiction center for problematic use. Whereas early detection is highly recommended by the World Health Organization, it is not usually performed in practice. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a web-based app, called Pulsio Santé, for health service users and first-line prevention HCW and to carry out an exhaustive process of early detection of psychoactive substance use behaviors. Methods: A mixed methods prospective study was conducted in 2 departments: HCWs from the regional occupational health department and from the university department of preventive medicine dedicated to students were invited to participate. Participants 18 years or older who had been seen in 2017 by a HCW from one of the departments were eligible. The study procedure comprised 5 phases: (1) inclusion of the participants after a face-to-face consultation with an HCW; (2) reception of a text message by participants on their smartphone or by email; (3) self-assessment by participants regarding their substance use with the Pulsio Santé app; (4) if participants agreed, transfer of the results to the HCW; and (5) if participants declined, a message to invite them to get in touch with their general practitioner should the assessment detect a risk. Several feasibility and acceptability criteria were assessed by an analysis of a focus group with the HCW that explored 4 themes (usefulness and advantages, problems and limitations, possible improvements, and finally, integration into routine practice). Results: A total of 1474 people were asked to participate, with 42 HCWs being involved. The percentage of people who agreed to receive a text message or an email, which was considered as the first level of acceptability, was 79.17% (1167/1474). The percentage of participants who clicked on the self-assessment link, considered as the second level of acceptability, was 60.24% (703/1167). The percentage of participants who completed their self-evaluation entirely, which was considered as the first level of feasibility, was 76.24% (536/703). The percentage of participants who shared the results of their evaluation with the HCWs, considered as the second level of feasibility, was 79.48% (426/536). The qualitative study showed that there were obstacles on the side of HCWs in carrying out the recommended interventions for people at risk based on their online screening, such as previous training or adaptations in accordance with specific populations. Conclusions: Quantitative results showed good acceptability and feasibility of the Pulsio Santé app by users and HCWs. There is a need for further studies more directly focused on the limitations highlighted by the qualitative results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the correlation between self-perceived dental appearance and dental malocclusion among 18- to 20-year-old college students in Virajpet, Karnataka.Materials and Methods: A stratified random sample consisting of 280 18- to 20-year-old college students in Virajpet were recruited for the study. A pretested Oral Aesthetic Subjective Impact Scale (OASIS) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to assess the subjects' perception of dental aesthetics. Malocclusion was clinically assessed using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). The data were tabulated and analysed using SPSS version 16. The Spearman rankorder correlation coefficient was employed to determine the correlation between self-perceived dental appearance and dental malocclusion.Results: Of the 280 students, 41.8% were females and 58.2% were males. The mean OASIS score was 23.93 (±3.72), the VAS score was 69.61 (±15.78) and DAI 24.80 (±6.29).Conclusion: There was a negative correlation between perception of personal dental appearance and the DAI scores in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-sectional research shows that campus recreation (CR) facility use is related to higher grade point averages (GPA) and favorable health indices. Further research is needed to address whether the relationships are caused by greater use of CR facilities or the accommodation of existing behaviors valued by students with higher GPA and favorable health indices. Thus, 179 first year student's GPA, body mass index (BM1), television (TV) viewing, physical activity (IPAQ), and nutrient intakes were compared between those who increased CR visits (by ≥ 1 day/wk), and those who decreased CR visits (by≥ 1 day/wk) between fall and spring semesters. No significant (p < .05) differences were found between the groups for GPA, BMI, TV time, IPAQ scores, or nutrient intakes. Though these data indicate that GPA and health indices are minimally impacted by an increase or decrease in CR use, they suggest that students with higher GPA and favorable health indices are more likely to use CR facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the results from the 2013 National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Assessment and Knowledge Consortium. Students (N = 33,522) from 38 different colleges and universities across the United States completed the Recreation and Wellness Benchmark instrument. Using Astin's Theory of Student Involvement (1984), this study sought to determine if there were significant differences between different depth and breadth levels of participants' campus recreational sports involvement/participation on student retention, health and wellness, and student learning outcomes. Heavy Users placed significantly more importance on campus recreational sports facilities and programs when deciding to continue at their college/university, and felt they had increased or improved every health and wellness and student learning outcome from their participation in campus recreation significantly more when compared with Moderate, Light, and Non-Users. Findings from this nationwide study demonstrate the value of collegiate recreation to the college and university experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several American universities have experienced COVID-19 outbreaks, risking the health of their students, employees, and local communities. Such large outbreaks have drained university resources and forced several institutions to shift to remote learning and send students home, further contributing to community disease spread. Many of these outbreaks can be attributed to the large numbers of active infections returning to campus, alongside high-density social events that typically take place at the semester start. In the absence of effective mitigation measures (e.g., high-frequency testing), a phased return of students to campus is a practical intervention to minimize the student population size and density early in the semester, reduce outbreaks, preserve institutional resources, and ultimately help mitigate disease spread in communities.Methods: We develop dynamic compartmental SARS-CoV-2 transmission models to assess the impact of a phased reopening, in conjunction with pre-arrival testing, on minimizing on-campus outbreaks and preserving university resources (measured by isolation bed capacity). We assumed an on-campus population of N = 7500, 40% of infected students require isolation, 10 day isolation period, pre-arrival testing removes 90% of incoming infections, and that phased reopening returns one-third of the student population to campus each month. We vary the disease reproductive number (Rt) between 1.5 and 3.5 to represent the effectiveness of alternative mitigation strategies throughout the semester.Results: Compared to pre-arrival testing only or neither intervention, phased reopening with pre-arrival testing reduced peak active infections by 3 and 22% (Rt = 1.5), 22 and 29% (Rt = 2.5), 41 and 45% (Rt = 3.5), and 54 and 58% (improving Rt), respectively. Required isolation bed capacity decreased between 20 and 57% for values of Rt ≥ 2.5.Conclusion: Unless highly effective mitigation measures are in place, a reopening with pre-arrival testing substantially reduces peak number of active infections throughout the semester and preserves university resources compared to the simultaneous return of all students to campus. Phased reopenings allow institutions to ensure sufficient resources are in place, improve disease mitigation strategies, or if needed, preemptively move online before the return of additional students to campus, thus preventing unnecessary harm to students, institutional faculty and staff, and local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite university health services' critical role in addressing students' health, students frequently underutilize on-campus healthcare, in part due to uncertainty. This study used Uncertainty Management Theory and 41 interviews with college students and health center staff and providers to uncover the types of health services uncertainty students experienced and how students used communication to manage uncertainty. Students experienced institutional uncertainty pertaining to services, logistics, and quality-of-care. Participants who viewed this uncertainty negatively sought to reduce it via passive- and experiential-information seeking. Students who appraised uncertainty neutrally or positively maintained it by ignoring or avoiding information. Other students increased uncertainty by seeking second opinions. Findings suggest that promoting health services year-round and incentivizing patient referrals may help students manage both uncertainty and their health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The results of monitoring the physical health of 16-17-year-old girls who became first-year students of Khmelnytskyi Humanitarian-Pedagogical Academy during 2016-2019 have been analysed in the article. Material and methods: 1670 female students participated in the research. In the course of the research, the number of people belonging to the main, preparatory and special medical group was determined, as well as those who were exempted from attending physical education classes. Results: The results of the research have found that there is a tendency for an increase in the number of female students exempted from attending physical education classes from 3.17% to 6.60%, and the increase in the number of female students assigned for health reasons to special medical groups at physical education classes from 6.57% to 11.93%. Conclusions: The analysis of changes of anthropometric indicators of girls showed that there is a growing number of overweight female students from 9.2% to 11.7%, and from 1.2% to 1.7% of those who have 1-2 degree of obesity. The analysis of functional indicators of physical condition showed that 21.8% of female students had deviations in age-related heart rate, and the indicator of vital capacity of lungs in 34.8% of female students was lower than the established norm. An analysis of the Robinson index showed that the level of energy potential of female students tends to deteriorate [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research shows that college students are increasingly stressed and ill equipped to manage the rigors of higher education. This article adds the student voice to the discussion of college student stress and wellness and asks the question: How do students' understanding, and practice of self-care evolve through an online course focused on professional selfcare? A content analysis of the final presentation of a one-credit online self-care class was conducted. Results show that students come to the class with limited knowledge about stress management (i.e. self-care) practices, and over the course of seven weeks learn how to incorporate self-care into their daily lives and feel better for it. Students benefit by having a structured environment to learn about and practice self-care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: New Canadian 24-Hour movement guidelines for adults recommend several hours of light physical activity each day, 150 minutes/week of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) including muscle strengthening activities at least twice a week, no more than 8 hours of sedentary time and 3 hours of recreational screen time each day, and 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. This study examines post-secondary student adherence to the guidelines and its associations with sociodemographic factors and mental health. Methods: We analyzed data from a sample of 20 090 post-secondary students in Canada who participated in the 2019-2020 Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey (CCWS). Prevalence of meeting guidelines for physical activity, sedentary time, recreational screen time and sleep were examined. We conducted logistic regression to examine associations between meeting movement guidelines and sociodemographic factors and mental health outcomes. Results: Only 9.9% of students (females 10.4%; males 9.2%) were currently achieving four components of the 24-hour movement guidelines. Respondents most commonly adhered to MVPA (61.1%) and sleep (59.7%) guidelines. Adherence to sedentary and screen time guidelines was lower (56.3% and 36.2%, respectively). Sociodemographic factors associated with higher odds of meeting the guidelines included being female, older age, self-identifying as White, and living at high socioeconomic status. Students who reported higher psychological well-being were more likely to meet the guidelines. Discussion: Overall adherence to the new guidelines is low among post-secondary students in Canada. The CCWS provides a mechanism for monitoring the dissemination and implementation of the new Canadian 24-hour movement guidelines for adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim in this study was to determine both the level of exposure to the electromagnetic radiation of the young population in their living areas and its relationship with their health problems. A questionnaire about the intensity of the electromagnetic field radiation exposure and their health problems was used on 705 college students. Participants were 40.2% male, 59.8% female with a median of 20 (17-41) years old. Some students have been living close to base stations and high voltage lines (30% and 18.7%, respectively). Students had an internet network (82.3%). Mobile phone and computer usage for more than 5 years were 83% and 66%, respectively. 73.1% had electrical/electronic devices in the bedroom. Exposure time to electrical/electronic systems in 44.7% of students was more than 5 hours per day. Some health problems mentioned were fatigue (75.2%), muscle pain (39%), difficulty in concentration (51.7%), stress (36.4%), eye discomfort (28.5%), light sensitivity (21.3%), and sleep disorder (%40). Chi-square analysis showed a significant relationship between daily electrical/electronic device exposure time and headache frequency, concentration difficulties, fatigue, muscle pain (P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.001, P<0.01, respectively). The presence of electronic devices in the bedroom showed a statistically significant relationship with a sleep disorder, concentration difficulties, stress, fatigue, dizziness, and tinnitus (P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.001, P<0.05, and P<0.001, respectively). According to our results, there is considerable exposure to electromagnetic radiation from technological systems in our daily life. Although the long-term effects of electromagnetic radiation exposure in humans are unclear, our findings suggest that electromagnetic radiation may be associated with some health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Investigating the correlates of healthy lifestyle habits is essential to promote healthy behaviors in university students to be able to prevent developing non-communicable diseases in the long-term. The primary aim of this research was to investigate whether hopelessness is associated with health-promoting lifestyle behaviors among university students. Also, healthy lifestyle habits of medical students were compared with those of students from different fields of study. Methods: Four hundred and thirty-five undergraduate students from the Faculties of Medicine and Science and Literature participated in a paper-based cross-sectional study. The data were collected with the demographic information sheet, Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP II), and Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), and analyzed using SPSS 22 statistics software. Results: There were significant negative correlations between BHS scores and HPLP II total (r=-0.39) and all subscale scores, including health responsibility (r=-0.22), physical activity (r=-0.18), nutrition (r=- 0.17), spiritual growth (r=-0.53), interpersonal relations (r=-0.30), and stress management (r=-0.25; P<0.001 for all). In addition, medical students had higher physical activity (95% CI [0.64, 2.50], t(406.03)=3.33, P<0.001) and lower interpersonal relations (95% CI [-1.73, -0.10], t(429.74)=-2.22, P=0.027) scores than their non-medical counterparts. Conclusion: This study investigating the relationship between hopelessness and health-promoting lifestyle behaviors among medical and non-medical students revealed that negative expectations about the possible consequences of potential behaviors are associated with retention of activities that can improve health in the long-term. Considering their reported weakness in interpersonal relationships, medical education should provide support to the students in improving their social support network to enhance their health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]