Physical Activity Level and Psychological Well-being of University Students and Possibilities for its Improvement: Case Study from North Macedonia

Physical, emotional, and mental health are important aspects of overall well-being. According to the WHO “Well-being is a state in which the individual realizes their potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to their community“. On the other side, physical activity is recognized as one of the most effective ways to improve overall wellbeing. When it comes to young people, universities are recognized as important places for promotion of well being and active lifestyle. This study is focused on examination of physical activity level and level of psychological wellbeing among students at two universities in North Macedonia and to explore students’ opinions about possibilities that the university can offer with aim to improve participation in physical activity and overall wellbeing. Physical activity level of students was examined using short version of IPAQ questionnaire. Psychological well-being was examined using revised short version of Psychological Well-being scale adopted by Ryff (1989) that measure six dimensions of well-being: Autonomy, Enviromental mastery, Personal growth, Positive relations with others, the Purpose of life and the Self-acceptance. Possibilities of the universities were identified using open-ended questions. The study was conducted at sample of 230 students from GoceDelcev University and International Balkan University in North Macedonia, including students of all study years. The results from this study provide solid basis for outlining recommendations for practical activities which can be applied at higher education institutions, with final aim of improving students’ physical activity level and well-being.

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