Anxiety, depression and physical activity in university students from the Peruvian jungle during the Covid-19 pandemic

Introduction: During the Covid-19 pandemic, university students go through stressful situations that lead to adaptive reactions that generate anxiety and depression; on the other hand, the regular practice of physical activity seems to be related to beneficial effects that influence the reduction of negative emotions. Objective: The objective of this research was to determine the relationship between anxiety, depression and physical activity in university students in the Peruvian jungle during the Covid-19 pandemic. Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional, non-experimental and correlational study. With a sample of 321 students of both sexes, selected by non-probabilistic sampling; a virtual survey was applied using the GAD-7 and HPQ-9 to assess the levels of anxiety and depression; and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to explore levels of physical activity. Data collection was carried out from September 20 to October 22, 2021. Results: The results showed significant inverse correlations between physical activity and anxiety and depression (Rho -0.172, p=0.00), (Rho -0.217, p=0.00). Conclusion: The greater the practice of physical activities, the lower the anxiety and depression in students from the Peruvian jungle, which suggests that the practice of physical activity in university students should be promoted.