Domains matter: Cross-sectional associations between mental well-being and domain specific physical activity and sedentary behaviour in n=31,818 adults in Scotland

Abstract

Abstract Background Mental well-being is an important protective factor for health, and interest in the relationship between mental well-being and physical activity and sedentary behaviour is growing. Previous research indicates that domain and type of activity matter to fully understand the relationship, and that the association may differ across levels of mental well-being. This study aimed to investigate the domain-specific associations for physical activity and sedentary behaviours with different levels of mental wellbeing using population-level data.Methods We pooled data from the nationally representative 2012–2019 Scottish Health Survey. Respondents aged ≥ 16 years reported domain-specific physical activity over the previous four weeks and average domain-specific daily sitting time for week and weekend days. Mental wellbeing was assessed using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Associations were investigated using cubic spline and multinomial regressions, progressively adjusted for demographic variables, body mass index, self-reported general health, and other movement behaviours.Results The sample comprised of 31,818 adults (52.3% female). The majority (71.2%) had a medium MWB score with 15.2% and 13.5% in the low and high categories respectively. The findings indicated that home-based heavy manual (including gardening and DIY), walking, sport and exercise, and leisure time sitting were all positively associated with mental well-being. There was no association evident for heavy housework or occupational sitting, and high levels of TV/screen time sitting were negatively associated with mental well-being. Activity at work presented a mixed picture. For walking and sport and exercise, the relationship differed by mental well-being level with any increase in activity reducing the likelihood of low mental well-being but only the highest levels of activity increasing the likelihood of high mental well-being.Conclusions The findings of this large population level study extend the argument that domains and types of activity matter, and not all physical activity and sedentary behaviour is equal in terms of mental well-being. Additionally, the relationship between some activity and mental well-being can vary depending on levels of mental-well-being. In order to enhance mental well-being, physical activity and sedentary behaviour messaging and promotion should be nuanced to highlight the most promising activities and target those who may most benefit.