EFFECT OF COVID 19 ON MENTAL HEALTH OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

 

EFFECT OF COVID 19 ON MENTAL HEALTH OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

PHOTO COURTESY GOOGLE

The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the access to higher education in numerous ways, some of them indirect. Students encounter difficulties such as mental health or precarity issues that result indirectly from the health crisis and the measures taken by governments.

Studies worldwide have shown that the Covid 19 crisis has increased the risks for University students’ mental health. Concerns have been raised about the impact of public health measures put in place by governments on students’ well-being.

Higher education students’ mental health has been a growing concern in recent years even before the COVID-19 pandemic. The stresses and restrictions associated with the pandemic has put university students at greater risk of developing mental health issues, which may significantly impair their academic success, social interactions and their future career and personal opportunities.

 There are high levels of anxiety and depression, with more than 50% experiencing levels above the clinical cut offs, Higher levels of distress were associated with lower levels of exercising, higher levels of tobacco use, and a number of life events associated with the pandemic and lockdown, such as cancelled events, worsening in personal relationships and financial concerns. 

PHOTO COURTESY GOOGLE