RISK FACTORS, UNDERLYING COVARIATES AND INTERACTIONS WITH MAGNITUDE OF DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS DURING COVID-19 MOVEMENT CONTROL ORDER (MCO) AMONG THE TERTIARY EDUCATES IN MALAYSIA: A REVIEW

Abstract

Amid the Covid-19 Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia, university students faced significant lifestyle changes, with potential impacts on mental health. This review investigates the interrelationship between dietary quality, physical activity, and depressive symptoms among tertiary-educated individuals in Malaysia during this period. Our analysis classified diet quality based on gender, breakfast habits, snack consumption, and fast food intake. Results indicated female students generally had better diet quality than males. A significant number of students skipped breakfast and frequently consumed snacks and fast food. On the physical activity front, a majority were found to be physically inactive, with males being slightly more active than females. A substantial proportion exhibited depressive symptoms. Importantly, there was a significant association between diet quality, physical activity, and depressive symptoms. Addressing these factors is crucial to improving students' mental health, urging the need for preventive measures and interventions.