Indian College Students Lifestyle Triad: Exploring Prevalence and Association among Stress Level, Dietary Habits and Exercise Patterns

Abstract
Objective -The present research focuses on the occurrence and correlation of stress, dieting and exercise among college going adolescents in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Methods - A cross-sectional study adopting a descriptive research design was used in this study to involve 670 students aged 17-22 years (82% female) in four colleges. Perceived stressors (Perceived Stress Scale), dietary habits (Food Frequency Questionnaire) and levels of physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) were analyzed using standardized tools. Results - Scores revealed that stress was very prevalent with 47 percent of the students responded as that they were severely stressed, which was manifested through irritability, insomnia, and anxiety. Statistics showed high correlation levels; high amount of physical activity and healthy diets (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) had strong correlations with the lower stress levels, and low activity and poor dietary practices (a lot of sweets, fried foods, and processed foods) with the high levels of stress. The absence of academic pressure, motivation, and environmental factors, and strong social impacts were the key factors that prevented healthy behavior. Bidirectional relationship between stress and both lifestyle variables was also established through hypothesis testing and Pearson correlation. Conclusion -The results of the investigations demonstrate the high importance of concerted measures at campuses that help to maintain physical activity, proper nutrition, and stress-controlling mechanisms. It is also necessary to tackle these lifestyle factors in adolescence as a mitigation strategy against mental health risks as well as building long-term wellness practices. The research presents practical evidence that can inform an institutional policy and the general health initiatives aimed at enhancing the health of adult youths.