Psychosocial predictors of mental well-being in higher education students: A comprehensive approach

Abstract

Time spent in tertiary education can be crucial in establishing practices and attitudes that last a lifetime. Although higher education institutions can be one of the main promoters of health, students seem to be a particularly vulnerable group, exposed to constant pressure for academic results and to various stimuli with consequences for their health. It is common to find psychological distress situations, with high levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and even suicidal ideation. Strategies for preventing and promoting health in higher education need to be based on research on predictors of student well-being. Due to the large number of factors that can have a significant impact on student well-being, it is essential to analyze all of these influences together and identify potential priorities for intervention. In this study, this is done by taking a holistic approach to the various factors at multiple levels of analysis. The aim was to test the differential role of multiple predictors of mental well-being on a representative sample of Portuguese university students, using seven factors: (i) sociodemographic; (ii) health status; (iii) lifestyle choices; (iv) life satisfaction and self-esteem; (v) academic-related aspects; (vi) relationships; and (vii) leisure and cultural activities.