Health Behaviour and Psychological Distress among Police Personnel in Ondo State, Nigeria: The Mediating Role of Physical Activity Status

ABSTRACT: Psychological distress is a growing occupational health concern among police personnel, particularly in contexts where officers are exposed to demanding work conditions, operational pressure, and limited wellness support. This study examined the relationship between health behaviour, physical activity status, and psychological distress among police personnel in Ondo State, Nigeria, with physical activity status tested as a mediating variable. A descriptive correlational research design was adopted. Data were collected from 359 police personnel using structured questionnaires. Psychological distress was measured using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21, health behaviour was assessed using the Health Behaviour Questionnaire, and physical activity status was measured using the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and Hayes’ PROCESS Macro for mediation analysis. Findings showed notable psychological distress among respondents, with anxiety being the most severe domain. Specifically, 40.4% reported extremely severe anxiety, 21.4% reported severe depression, and 17.3% reported severe stress. Health behaviour significantly predicted psychological distress, indicating that better health behaviour was associated with lower distress. However, physical activity status did not significantly predict psychological distress and did not mediate the relationship between health behaviour and psychological distress. The study concludes that health behaviour has a direct protective association with psychological distress among police personnel, while physical activity status alone does not explain this relationship. Police wellness interventions should therefore adopt a broader health behaviour approach that includes stress management, adequate rest, healthy diet, and mental health support alongside physical activity promotion. Keywords: Psychological Distress, Health Behaviour, Physical Activity Status, Police Personnel, Ondo State, Nigeria.