COVID-19 LOCKDOWN: THE MAGNITUDE OF DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS IN RELATION TO DIET AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between habitual food consumption, physical activity, and depression among 608 public university students during the Movement Control Order via convenience sampling. Students’ food consumption was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, while the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 were used to evaluate physical activity levels and depressive symptoms, respectively. The pre-tested questionnaire was self-administered via Google Forms, and the data was analysed using SPSS v25. The most frequently consumed food items were “plain water” (score: 95.9) and “white rice” (score: 93.7). Approximately 74.3% of the students reported moderate-to-high physical activity levels. However, mental health was a concern, with 49.2% of the students exhibiting depressive symptoms, 55.1% showing signs of anxiety, and 33.1% reporting stress symptoms. There were significant correlations between depressive symptoms and consumption of certain food groups such as cereal and cereal products, fast food, eggs, milk and milk products, and confectionery, at p < 0.05. Similarly, significant correlations were observed between depressive symptoms and total walking, total moderate physical activity, and total physical activity, at p < 0.05. These findings highlight the impact of COVID-19 on university students’ health, emphasising the need for appropriate interventions and preventative measures for their well-being.