Mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak in Uruguay: the impact of healthy lifestyle behaviors and sociodemographic factors.

This article examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on depressive and anxiety symptoms among adults in Uruguay, a country that implemented mild containment measures without mandatory lockdowns. Using a cross-sectional survey of 1,051 adults, the study found mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms and severe anxiety symptoms, with higher levels reported by individuals in total isolation, women, younger people, and those of lower socioeconomic status. Additionally, healthy lifestyle behaviors—including physical activity, maintaining sleep routines, exposure to natural light, and having outdoor space—were associated with lower symptom severity. The findings highlight the importance of considering sociodemographic and lifestyle factors when addressing mental health during the pandemic, even in contexts with less restrictive public health measures.