*2.4. The Parallel Mediation Model*

A parallel mediation model was used in the study to verify our assumptions. It is a basic mediation model (4) from Hayes PROCESS templates [33]. Our theoretical model (Figure 1) assumes that perceived control over time (X) would indirectly affect fear of COVID-19 (Y) through two mediators: mental health (m1) and vitality (m2). All the individual direct and indirect paths as the total indirect effect were calculated as described in Figure 1.

**Figure 1.** Hypothesized model. Note—perceived control over time: predictor variable; mental health: mediator 1; vitality: mediator 2; COVID-19 fear: outcome variable; a1b1: a specific indirect effect of perceived control over time on COVID-19 fear through mental health; a2b2: a specific indirect impact of perceived control over time on COVID-19 fear through vitality; c': direct effect of perceived control over time on COVID-19 fear; total indirect effect: a1b1 + a2b2.
