Bahrami, Mitra (2026) On-campus supervised physical activity programme for university students facing mental health challenges – a feasibility study exploring feasibility, acceptability, fidelity and preliminary effects. Masters thesis, York St John University.

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Abstract

Aims and objectives: University students experience mental health problems, and despite the link between physical activity and improved mental well-being, are often physically inactive. This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, fidelity, and preliminary effects of a supervised physical activity programme for students with mild-to-moderate mental health challenges.

Method: This exploratory mixed-methods prospective cohort study assessed a 6-week on-campus supervised physical activity programme, including one 60-minute group session per week and one-to-one behavioural support at the start and end. Participants were recruited via university-wide advertising and self-referral. Health outcomes included physical activity, quality of life (ReQoL), depression (PHQ-9), mental health (MHI-38), muscular strength, and aerobic fitness. Feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity were assessed via analysis of study process data, an exit survey and one-to-one interviews with staff and participants.

Results: Eighteen students joined, with 11 (61%) consenting to research participation (mean age = 19.6 years, 8 females). Six (54.5%) participants completed the intervention and mean attendance was 4.2 sessions (out of 6). All sessions were delivered as scheduled, with individual adaptations where required. The programme was highly acceptable, supported by psychological safety and the small group format. 83.3% rated their experience as “Excellent,” and 100% would recommend it. Quantitative analyses showed statistically significant improvements in depressive symptoms (PHQ-9, p=0.027), recovery-related quality of life (ReQoL, p=0.027), and overall mental health (MHI-38, p=0.043). Physical activity and fitness outcomes were inconclusive due to missing data. Qualitative findings supported improvements in mood, confidence, sleep, and daily functioning, emphasising the importance of psychological safety and staff support.

Conclusion: Supervised, psychologically-informed physical activity programming can be an acceptable component of university wellbeing provision when delivered supportively and flexibly. Preliminary mental health improvements are promising, but findings should be interpreted cautiously due to sample size. Future research with larger, diverse samples and follow-up is needed to evaluate effectiveness, sustainability.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Status:	Published
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General)
School/Department:	School of Science, Technology and Health
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/14609

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