Sport, Adaptation and Mental Health: An Integrated Study on the Well-Being of Academics in the Health Area

• Grant number: 24/20997-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Nursing
• Principal Investigator: Julio César André
• Grantee: Jamilli Salvador Bonini
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP). Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (São Paulo - Estado). São José do Rio Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the academic adaptation of university students, focusing on the relationship between adaptation, well-being, mental health, and participation in sports activities. Academic adaptation is crucial for student success, directly influencing performance, satisfaction, and retention in the program. Previous research indicates that good adaptation is associated with higher well-being, academic engagement, and social integration. Furthermore, participation in sports activities can significantly benefit academic adaptation by promoting skills such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. The project seeks to integrate two areas of research: the relationship between academic adaptation and well-being/mental health, and the influence of sports activities on adaptation. The main objectives include assessing students' academic adaptation, exploring its relationship with well-being and mental health, and examining how participation in sports activities influences these factors. Methodologically, a cross-sectional study will be conducted with students from FAMERP, using proportional stratified sampling to ensure representativeness. Data collection will be done online, using questionnaires that address sociodemographic variables, participation in physical activities, academic/athletic identity, stress levels, and resilience. The analyses will include descriptive and inferential methods to identify associations between the studied variables. The project aims not only to contribute to understanding academic adaptation and its associated factors but also to provide practical recommendations for improving students' academic adaptation and mental health, potentially influencing institutional policies and student support programs.