Appearance Anxiety, Subjective Happiness and Mental Health Issues among University Students

Abstract

The study measures the relationship among appearance anxiety, subjective happiness and mental health issues in university students. Using Cross-sectional survey research design, a total of 616 students were included in the study through stratified sampling. Data were collected through Appearance Anxiety Inventory (AAI), Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Using SPSS-24, results indicated a negative relationship between appearance anxiety and subjective happiness and a positive relationship between appearance anxiety and mental health issue (r = .526). Correlation analysis also revealed that there is a significant negative relationship between subjective happiness and mental health issues (r = -.13) among university students. Regression analysis revealed that appearance anxiety is a significant predictor of mental health issues in university students. Through the findings, the role of body image in students’ overall well-being is highlighted. Further, it also sheds light on the importance of mental health related services in the universities for the promotion of mental well-being of students. The significant relationship among appearance anxiety, subjective happiness and mental health issues suggests that providing counseling and intervention services for appearance anxiety not only enhances overall well-being, but also reduces the mental health issues among students.