This study investigated the association between pre-pandemic lifestyle factors and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, considering socioeconomic deprivation. A nationally representative longitudinal cohort (ELSA) was used. A composite lifestyle score was created from BMI, smoking, alcohol use, physical activity, sedentary time, sleep, and fruit/vegetable intake. Mental health was assessed using CES-D, GAD-7, and ONS-4 scales. Results showed that participants with unfavorable lifestyles had a significantly increased risk of depression, anxiety, and low well-being compared to those with favorable lifestyles. This association held across different socioeconomic deprivation levels, with the most deprived participants exhibiting the highest risk. Socioeconomic deprivation independently contributed to mental health risks. The study suggests that a healthy lifestyle is crucial for mental well-being during pandemics, and interventions should address both lifestyle factors and socioeconomic inequalities.

Gang Hu, Huibo Qin, Binbin Su, Yanping Bao, Zhengting Liang, Yunhe Wang