Grip and Grit: The Link Between Handgrip Strength and Mental Health

INTRODUCTION: Hand grip strength (HGS) is a reliable and valid objective measure of the functional integrity of the musculoskeletal system. It is quantified by measuring the isometric force generated by the hand when gripping a dynamometer. Physiological factors such as age, body mass, height, and gender, along with occupational activities, leisure pursuits, and hand span, all influence HGS. Recent studies have highlighted a potential link between handgrip strength and mental health outcomes, suggesting that HGS may reflect psychological well-being. In this study, we assessed handgrip strength among university students, faculty, and staff to explore its association with mental health, focusing specifically on anxiety disorders. MATERIALS & METHODS: This study was conducted on the RAKMHSU campus. All participants provided informed consent, and relevant demographic data were collected. Mental health was assessed using two standardized questionnaires: the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the Patient Health Questionnaire Scale (PHQ-9), which evaluate anxiety and depression, respectively. Handgrip strength was measured using a Jamar Plus hand dynamometer in the physiology lab. Results: A total of 216 participants, with a mean age of 20.6 years, took part in this study, including 138 females and 78 males. Results showed a negative correlation between HGS values and scores on both the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales. This association was more pronounced in female participants than in males. DISCUSSION: Our findings indicate a statistically significant reduction in JPP (Jamar Plus dynamometer) left-hand readings among participants with high scores on the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 compared to those with lower scores. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between JPP values and high scores on both scales, suggesting that lower handgrip strength is linked to elevated anxiety and depression levels. Conclusion: This study supports an association between handgrip strength and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, consistent with previous research (e.g., Jiang et al., 2022). Higher handgrip strength appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of developing generalized anxiety and depressive disorders. Given its non-invasive, easy-to-use nature, handgrip strength measurement could be a valuable tool for mental health screening in broader populations. Future research involving larger cohorts and longitudinal designs could further validate these findings. This abstract was presented at the American Physiology Summit 2025 and is only available in HTML format. There is no downloadable file or PDF version. The Physiology editorial board was not involved in the peer review process.