Mastery, physical activity and psychological distress in mid-aged adults

ABSTRACT Objective The objective was to investigate associations between mastery and physical activity with psychological distress in a population-based sample of mid-aged adults. Method Self-reported measures of psychological distress, mastery and time spent in each of walking, moderate and vigorous physical activity in the previous week were examined in a cross-sectional sample of 7,146 adults aged 40–64 years (M = 53 years, SD = 6.5 years, 42.4% men). Generalized Linear Models were used to examine the inter-relationship between mastery and physical activity with psychological distress. Results In fully adjusted models, only mastery was significantly associated with psychological distress (β = − 0.12, SE = 0.01, p < .01). There was no significant interaction between mastery and physical activity on psychological distress. Conclusions Mastery may be an important resource against psychological distress. A sense of control may therefore be a key component for psychotherapeutic interventions to mitigate distress in mid-aged adults. KEY POINTS What is already known about this topic: Previous research indicates psychological distress is prevalent among Australian mid-aged adults. Mastery and physical activity are resources shown to protect against psychological distress in mid-aged adults. Longitudinal research with mid-aged adults has demonstrated a positive relationship between mastery and physical activity. What this topic adds: The current study showed higher mastery was associated with lower psychological distress in a sample of mid-aged adults. No relationship was observed between physical activity and distress or for an interaction between physical activity and mastery. This evidence may inform the development of interventions to mitigate distress in mid-aged adults.