Factors Affecting Well-Being for Young Women in the Balkans

This paper assesses the correlates of perceived well-being among young women aged 18
to 30 in fve Balkan cities: Athens, Greece; Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Bucharest, Romania; Nis,
Serbia; and Shtip, North Macedonia, by integrating urban, travel behavioural, and socioeconomic features. A cross-sectional survey was employed using standard questionnaires
including the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), the short version
of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and the adapted ALPHA
environmental questionnaire. To answer research questions, linear regression models
were developed to analyse predictors of well-being at both regional and national levels.
Results show that neighbourhood and mobility features play a signifcant role in shaping
mental well-being. Access to walkable sidewalks, green spaces, mixed land-use structure,
and attractive local facilities (e.g., shops, recreational centres in the neighbourhood) were
consistently associated with higher levels of well-being. Conversely, perceived insecurity,
especially at night or regarding bicycle theft, signifcantly reduced well-being. Physical
activity levels, particularly days of walking and vigorous activity, showed strong positive
associations, underscoring the role of active lifestyles in promoting mental health. Socioeconomic variables, including fnancial status, relationship status, and work status, were
also found to be linked to perceived well-being. Cycling-related variables may affect Greek
well-being up to 16.5 times. Perception of crime during the night may negatively affect
both Bulgarian and Serbian well-being (up to 10 times), while Romanian well-being is
mostly affected by the existence of shopping facilities. Finally, the most impactful factors
for well-being in North Macedonia refer to cycling safety and scooter accessibility