SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND STRESS AND LEVEL OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN CYCLISTS AND NON-CYCLISTS IN THE NORTH OF MINAS GERAIS

Abstract

Introduction: Mental disorders such as anxiety and depression are considered the main causes of disability among the world population. In this context, cycling improves physical conditioning and reduces severe symptoms of these disorders, benefiting mental and physical health. Objective: To compare the occurrence of anxiety, depression and stress symptoms between cyclists and non-cyclists in the north of Minas Gerais. Methodology: This is an observational and quantitative study that analyzed variables such as gender, marital status, income, body mass index, education, level of physical activity, symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress of 233 cyclists and 245 non-cyclists in the north of Minas Gerais. Variables associated with the occurrence of severe symptoms of mental disorders were analyzed by multiple regression, considering a significance of 5% (p<0.05). Results: It was observed that 14% to 19% of the participants had severe symptoms of mental disorders. Women, sedentary people, and young adults were more likely to have severe symptoms of depression, while women and unmarried people were more likely to have severe anxiety. Stress, on the other hand, was more intense among women, people without higher education, young people and sedentary people. Conclusion: The results presented point to factors significantly associated with aspects of mental health. Implementing community strategies and awareness campaigns on the benefits of physical activity in the prevention of mental disorders, integrating it with mental health services, can strengthen social support and improve individual and collective well-being, reducing the prevalence of these disorders and promoting a better quality of life in the community.