Abstract
Objectives: The aim of the survey was to assess the level of depression correlated with physical activity and internet addiction among physiotherapy students of Polish universities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The survey was carried out via the internet among Polish physiotherapy students (141 respondents). The level of depression was assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory, physical activity by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) in Polish and the level of internet addiction by the Kimberly Young Questionnaire. Results: It was found that 31% of those surveyed stated that they suffered from moderate or severe depression. The overwhelming majority of the respondents (92%) considered the level of their internet addiction as low. More physical activity had a positive effect on mental health. The overuse of the internet exacerbated depressive symptoms. Conclusions: The prevalence of depression observed in students is mainly related to distant learning systems. Therefore, regular physical activity is recommended as it is associated with a lower level of depression. It is also advisable to provide students with necessary psychological care. Excessive use of social media is not recommended to elevate mood as it makes depression symptoms worse.
Highlights
Accepted: 23 September 2021Health is a multidimensional concept that includes social, physical and mental aspects.The COVID-19 pandemic has been a global health issue for over 18 months, and it has led to many negative changes
The aim of the study was to determine the level of depression and its correlation with physical activity and internet addiction among physiotherapy students of Polish universities during the COVID-19 pandemic
The majority of the students stated they had no depression according to the BDI
Summary
Accepted: 23 September 2021Health is a multidimensional concept that includes social, physical and mental aspects.The COVID-19 pandemic has been a global health issue for over 18 months, and it has led to many negative changes. As a result of the threat posed by COVID-19, numerous educational institutions have decided to call off face-to-face classes and have adopted a remote style of teaching and learning. With this form of work and study, it is difficult to function without access to the internet [2]. Addiction is defined as the body’s strong dependence on taking certain harmful substances or performing certain activities [6]. It is usually associated with the intake of substances that make an individual dependent on their effects. Internet addiction disorder is observed in connection with certain compulsive behaviors, Published: 25 September 2021
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