Associations between diet and physical activity and mental health among Catalan youth

Mental health problems are increasingly prevalent among adolescents and young adults and represent a major public health challenge closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Lifestyle-related and social factors, such as diet, physical activity, and social support, are closely related to emotional well-being during this critical life stage. This study examines the association between dietary habits, physical activity, and mental health among Catalan adolescents aged 15 to 25 years in Catalonia, within a population-based public health framework.

Data were drawn from the 2022-2023 Catalan Health Survey (ESCA), including 855 participants aged 15-25. Weighted logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between clinically diagnosed anxiety and depression and key personal and behavioral characteristics including age, sex, physical activity, social support, and diet.

Overall, 85.7% anxiety-free and 93.2% depression-free. Poorer mental health status was associated with female sex, older age, and frequent consumption of red or processed meats. In contrast, regular vigorous physical activity and strong social support were consistently associated with higher likelihood of reporting good mental health.

These findings underscore the relevance of modifiable lifestyle and social determinants in promoting mental well-being among young people. From a public health perspective, interventions that encourage physical activity, healthy dietary habits, and social connectedness may contribute to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 by reducing the burden of anxiety and depression in youth populations.