Stressed and Sedentary: A Descriptive Analysis of Health Consciousness and Barriers to Well-being Among Research Scholars

Objectives: Health consciousness among research scholars is crucial as they face unique stressors that may influence their health behaviors. Despite being educated about health, research scholars often struggle to maintain healthy habits due to various factors, including academic pressure, time constraints, and stress. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of health consciousness among first-year PhD scholars at VIT University. It further sought to summarize the frequency of psychological variables, including health consciousness (mindful eating, physical activity, perceived stress, and eating behaviors), and to document selfreported barriers to healthy behaviors among research scholars. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using a quantitative approach. A total of 104 first-year research scholars (72 females and 32 males) aged 22-50 years were selected through convenience sampling from VIT University, Vellore. The questionnaire assessed health knowledge, mindful eating, physical activity, perceived stress, and eating behaviors. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel. Results: 28% of participants were health-conscious, 25% had a neutral stance, and 22.3% showed low health consciousness. Time constraints (42.7%) emerged as the primary barrier to healthy eating, followed by easy access to junk food (27.2%) and stress (16.5%). Fear (27.9%) and sadness (25%) were the predominant emotions associated with unhealthy eating behaviors. Only 13.1% strongly agreed to practicing mindful eating. Conclusion: Despite awareness and knowledge about health, research scholars face significant barriers in maintaining healthy behaviors. Time constraints, stress, and easy accessibility to unhealthy foods are major impediments.