Healthy habits, healthy minds: An exploration of lifestyle behaviors and mental health among college students

<b>Objective:</b> To examine the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and anxiety and depression among college students, accounting for demographic, economic, and social factors. <b>Participants:</b> Undergraduate students (<i>N</i> = 12,371) attending doctoral universities in the United States who completed the 2021-2022 Healthy Minds Study. <b>Methods:</b> A cross-sectional study examining physical activity, work and study patterns, sleep, substance use, and contextual factors, including identity variables, financial stress, belonging, loneliness, and religiosity. Anxiety and depression were measured using the GAD-7 and PHQ-9, respectively. Associations were assessed using multiple linear regression models. <b>Results:</b> Approximately 38.2% of students screened positive for anxiety, and 44.2% for depression. Sleep was the strongest behavioral correlate. Physical activity showed protective effects, while e-cigarette and cannabis use were associated with poorer outcomes. Loneliness, belonging, and financial stress were strong contextual correlates. <b>Conclusions:</b> Lifestyle and contextual factors both shape student mental health, underscoring the value of holistic approaches in research and care.