Mental health in university students: the role of grit and basic psychological needs

Background

University students’ mental health is an increasing public health concern. Identifying protective factors is essential to inform prevention strategies. Within the framework of Self-Determination Theory, the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and related positive psychological traits may contribute to better mental health outcomes.

Methods

A cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted using an online survey in a convenience sample of 180 Portuguese university students (≥18 years). Psychological symptoms were assessed using the CORE-OM (symptoms dimension). Measures of basic psychological needs satisfaction, intrinsic motivation, and grit were also included. Pearson correlations and multiple linear regression analyses were performed.

Results

Psychological symptoms were negatively associated with grit (r = -0.396, p < .001), basic psychological needs satisfaction (r = -0.348, p < .001), and intrinsic motivation (r = -0.319, p < .001). The regression model was significant (F(3,176) = 15.640, p < .001), explaining 21.0% of the variance in symptoms. Grit was the strongest independent predictor (β = -0.285, p < .001), followed by basic psychological needs satisfaction (β = -0.171, p = .039). Intrinsic motivation was not a significant predictor.

Conclusions

Grit and the satisfaction of basic psychological needs appear to be relevant protective factors for mental health among university students. These findings support the inclusion of positive psychological variables in mental health promotion and prevention strategies in higher education settings.

Key messages

• Grit and basic psychological needs are key protective factors against psychological symptoms in university students, highlighting their relevance for mental health prevention strategies.

• Promoting positive psychological factors such as grit may support student mental health and inform public health interventions in higher education settings.