The mediating role of mental fatigue awareness in the relationship between perceived stress and psychological well-being among combat athletes

Background Combat athletes face unique psychological demands, and stress may influence both their cognitive experiences and psychological well-being. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of mental fatigue awareness in the relationship between perceived stress and psychological well-being among combat athletes, thereby contributing to a clearer understanding of a potential cognitive mechanism linking stress to well-being in this population.Methods A total of 303 combat athletes voluntarily participated. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale, Mental Fatigue Awareness Scale, and Psychological Well-being Scale. Statistical analyses assessed the direct effects of perceived stress on psychological well-being, the effect of stress on mental fatigue awareness, and the potential mediating role of mental fatigue awareness.Results Perceived stress significantly increased mental fatigue awareness (b = 0.732, SE = 0.064, beta = 0.549, p = 0.001) and directly decreased psychological well-being (b = - 0.488, SE = 0.166, beta = - 0.191, p = 0.004). Mental fatigue awareness negatively affected psychological well-being (b = - 0.374, SE = 0.124, beta = - 0.195, p = 0.003) and partially mediated the relationship between stress and well-being (indirect effect: b = - 0.274, SE = 0.115, beta = - 0.107, p = 0.003; 95% CI = - 0.504 to - 0.049).Conclusion Perceived stress was associated with psychological well-being both directly and indirectly through increased mental fatigue awareness. These findings suggest that mental fatigue awareness may represent a relevant cognitive pathway linking stress perceptions to well-being. Accordingly, stress management and strategies aimed at regulating mental fatigue may be considered as potentially beneficial components in efforts to support psychological well-being among combat athletes.