Independent samples t-tests, Mann Whitney U-tests and χ 2-tests determined the differences in healthy lifestyle behaviors and mental health indicators between adolescents of low-medium and high family affluence. A total of 1037 adolescents participated (mean age = 15.2, 49.8% female).

MethodsĪdolescents aged 12-18y were recruited via a random sample of schools in Flanders, Belgium.

Furthermore, the moderating role of family affluence was examined in those relations. This study investigated healthy lifestyle behaviors, namely sufficient sleep and physical activity, daily breakfast intake, low levels of alcohol use or smoking, in relation to mental health and symptoms of mental health problems (feelings of depression, anxiety, stress and self-esteem) among adolescents from different family affluence. This association may be even more relevant in adolescents of low family affluence, who show more mental health problems, as well as more unhealthy lifestyles. Healthy lifestyles may contribute to better mental health, which is particularly important in adolescence, an age at which half of all mental health problems first occur.

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