Relationship Between Negative Mood and Health Behaviors in an Immigrant and Refugee Population

Immigrants experience an escalation of negative health behaviors after arrival to the United States. Negative mood is associated with poorer health behaviors in the general population; however, this relationship is understudied in immigrant populations. Adolescent (n = 81) and adult (n = 70) participants completed a health behavior survey for immigrant families using a community-based participatory research approach. Data was collected for mood, nutrition, and physical activity. Adolescents with positive mood drank less regular soda, and demonstrated more minutes, higher levels, and greater social support for physical activity (all ps <.05). Adults with positive mood reported more snacking on fruits/vegetables, greater self-efficacy for physical activity, and better physical well-being (all ps <.05). Negative mood was associated with low physical activity level and poor nutritional habits in adolescent and adult immigrants. Designing community-based programs offering strategies for mood management and healthy lifestyle change may be efficacious for immigrant populations.