Prática de atividade física e fatores associados a depressão e ansiedade em estudantes da área de saúde da Universidade Federal da Paraíba/UFPB

Abstract

The present study is classified as quati-qualitative research, with the typology of the comparative descriptive study type, with the cross-sectional temporal cut and is based on the approach of discourse analysis as an analysis technique. The research aims to verify the practices of physical activity and factors associated with depression and anxiety in students of the health area of the Federal University of Paraíba. For this, two instruments were applied, a semi-structured one developed by the researcher, to assess physical activity practices and identify possible factors associated with depression and anxiety, socioeconomic and cultural data were also collected and to assess mental health, a validated instrument was used (DASS - 21). 100 students participated in the research, 20 students from each studied course (Physical Education, Pharmacy, Nursing, Nutrition and Physiotherapy), being men and women, aged between 18 and 35 years. The results indicate that of the total of 100 students, 72 (72%) were female, 90 (90%) of the interviewees were under 25 years of age and 94 (94%) were single. Most of the students investigated declared themselves white 47% and brown 34%. The majority (86%) did not have a paid job and the family income was between two and four minimum attendances for 69% of the families. Most 58% did not have health insurance and 62% did not have their own transport. Most (65%) practice physical activity, between four or more times a week 63%, in sessions ranging from one to two hours 57%, prevailing strength training 39% as the type of physical activity practiced and 49% these activities in private places. The result for anxiety indicated that of the total analyzed, 38 (38%) of the students fit the symptoms 11% severe and 27% very severe, with anxiety being considered the group with the highest risk. The result for depression showed that of the total investigated and with a greater propensity to develop a depressive tendency, there were 23 (23%) subjects, 10% in the severe form and 13% in the very severe form. In view of the analysis model of the study, the speeches verify that the positive involvement of the family can constitute a base of emotional experience, safe in the educational and cultural experiences. Factors correlated with disorders involving involvement in students, such as aspects related to the course, dissatisfaction with sleep, lack of psychological support, were strongly associated with the prevalence of these disorders. The situation points to the need for greater attention with these future professionals.