Free-time physical activity, mental health, and quality of life in Brazil’s Primary Health Care users

Background: Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress have been identified as one of the main current societal problems, and are also associated with a lower perception of quality of life. The physical activity (PA) practice in free time is recognized for health benefits, including physical and mental aspects, assuming great importance for Public Health. Purpose: To analyze the association among free-time PA, mental health, and perception of quality of life in Primary Health Care users in the Auriflama municipality, SP, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study, performed from August to October 2022, with 230 adults who answered questionnaires regarding mental health (DASS-21), perception of quality of life (SF-12v.2), and PA practice (IPAQ-long version). Simple and multiple binomial logistic regression models were used for the outcome free-time PA ≥ 150 minutes/week – results are expressed in odds ratio (OR) [95%CI]. Multiple linear regression models were used to compare free-time PA groups for the quality of life domains. Results: Participants classified as inactive during their free time presented a greater indication of risk for depression (3.49[1.54;7.89]) and anxiety (2.11;[1.04;4.27]). In the comparison of groups, inactive participants presented lower scores in all the quality of life domains (functional capacity, physical aspects, body pain, general health status, vitality, social aspects, emotional aspects, and mental health). Conclusion: People who practice at least 150 minutes of PA in free time per week had better outcomes related to mental health and perception of quality of life. Practical implications: It is useful to expand the possibilities of free-time PA access, understanding that these habits may not be choices for the majority and depend on people having basic and dignified living conditions. Funding: Andrella JL received a master’s scholarship from the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) of Brazil.