An Integrated Health and Wellness Model in a College Setting: A Path Analysis Pilot Investigation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Conceptual promises of integrated healthcare have been well-established, yet little empirical evidence is available related to its benefits (or lack thereof) within universities. In parallel, college students’ depression has gained consistent scholarly attention, with data illustrating exacerbated trends since the outbreak of COVID-19. Through this study, we examined an integrated health and wellness model implemented in a college setting. Specifically, we tested relationships among students’ engagement in mindfulness activities and pet therapy, use of recreation services, counseling utilization, and depression outcomes. Participants comprised 1,028 college students at a midsize private university in the United States. Our results supported the significant relationships between students’ engagement in mindfulness, pet therapy, recreation services, and depression outcomes. The path model also provided support for the mediating role of recreation on the relationship between students’ self-guided mindfulness and pet therapy and their depression outcomes the following year. This study sheds light on implications for applying integrated healthcare to a university setting.