{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Positive and Negative Correlates of Psychological Well-Being and Distress in College Students' Mental Health: A Correlational Study.
{Author}: Nogueira MJC;Sequeira CA;
{Journal}: Healthcare (Basel)
{Volume}: 12
{Issue}: 11
{Year}: 2024 May 25
{Factor}: 3.16
{DOI}: 10.3390/healthcare12111085
{Abstract}: BACKGROUND: Recognizing the positive or negative effects of students' mental health promotes personal development, well-being, and academic success. Academic life exposes college students to multiple adjustments, demands, and vulnerabilities that can cause stress and mental health problems. This study aims to identify psychological well-being and psychological distress effects on college students' mental health.
METHODS: A correlational study was designed involving a non-probabilistic 560 sample of students (446 women) aged 18 to 41 years (M = 19.6; SD = 1.68). An online self-report questionnaire was used including demographic, relational, academic, and health behaviors variables, and the measures: Mental Health Inventory; Satisfaction with Social Support Scale; Academic Life Satisfaction Scale; and Psychological Vulnerability Scale.
RESULTS: Regression analyses indicate that male students, dating, good academic performance, exercise, sleeping seven hours, satisfaction with social support, and academic life satisfaction were significant correlates (p < 0.05) of psychological well-being, with the last two having great weight in the model. Females, low income, aged 21-24 years, sleeping less than 6 h, moderate psychological vulnerability, and perception of vulnerability were significant (p < 0.05) negative effects of psychological distress.
CONCLUSIONS: This study addresses the positive and negative effects of psychological well-being and distress in college students. Specific mental health promotion and morbidity prevention programs can improve students' mental health literacy and resilience.