Poor sleep, low physical activity and other unhealthy behaviours are common among university students and are closely linked to poorer mental health. Yet the most effective intervention approaches remain uncertain. A systematic review by the University of Newcastle examined 22 randomised controlled trials targeting sleep, physical activity, healthy eating, alcohol use and other behaviours. While only a small number of programs improved both health behaviours and mental health outcomes, sleep‑focused interventions showed the strongest and most consistent benefits, with some positive effects also seen in physical activity and diet‑related programs. Given this, Australian universities should prioritise evidence‑based health behaviour initiatives (particularly those that improve sleep) while integrating physical activity and healthy lifestyle supports into broader student wellbeing strategies.
Citation: Streram, S., Burrows, T., Duncan, M.J., et al. Health behaviour interventions to improve mental health outcomes for students in the university setting: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 2025.
