Exercise habits and mental health among university students: A causal exploration based on instrumental variables

Abstract

Background Exercise habits, as one of the factors enabling university students to exercise autonomously and continuously are crucial for promoting mental health. However, previous studies often overlook endogeneity issues, making it difficult to establish the causal relationship between the two. This study uses the instrumental variable approach to explore the causal relationship between exercise habits and mental health among university students. Methods Questionnaires were distributed to students from three universities in a certain city, collecting valid samples from 1,120 college students. The the instrumental variable approach and the ordinary least squares explore the mental health benefits of university students' exercise habits. Results The results from the ordinary least squares method show that exercise habits are positively correlated with university students' positive affect (β = 0.179, p < .001), life satisfaction (β = 0.134, p < .001), and self-actualization (β = 0.086, p < .001). The results from the instrumental variable approach indicate that exercise habits have a positive impact on university students' positive affect (β = 0.263, p < .001), life satisfaction (β = 0.151, p = 0.006 < .01), and self-actualization (β = 0.102, p = 0.013 < .05). Comparing the estimation results, it is evident that the ordinary least squares underestimates the psychological health benefits of exercise habits. Conclusions Exercise habits can promote the mental health of university students. Specifically, exercise habits can enhance university students' positive affect, and improve their life satisfaction and self-actualization. To alleviate and prevent mental health issues among university students, it is recommended that universities implement sports programs aimed ultimately at cultivating students' exercise habits.