Relevance of sociodemographics and exercise in anxiety in women

Abstract

Many studies have indicated that both certain sociodemographic variables and exercise are related to mental health in women and men, although in general women seem to be more affected by them. The purpose of this work was to study relationships established between sociodemographic variables and exercise practice and anxiety levels in women. The sample was made of 200 women from the municipality of Cartagena (Murcia, Spain), ages ranging from 18 to 65 years. Results indicate that there are statistically significant differences among various groups: (a) women from the 45-54 year age group and those from 18-44 year age group had higher levels of anxiety, (b) widows demonstrated higher levels of anxiety than married and single women, (c) women with two children suffered higher levels of anxiety than those without children, and (d) women who had no higher education demonstrated higher levels of anxiety than those who had some higher educational degree. With regard to exercise, results indicate that there are statistically significant differences between the group of women that go to a gym or that take part in some type of
regular physical activity program (lower levels of anxiety) when compared to those that do not go to the gym or do not take part in any program. Results are discussed and some plans of action or investigation to
improve perception of women’s mental health are proposed.