Journal of Depression and Anxiety
Open Access

Abstract

Impacts of COVID-19: A Longitudinal Study on University Students Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Sabrina Williamson*, Laura Packel, Lauren Hunter, Shelleyn Facente, Mariah De Zuzuarregui, Yi Li, Maya Peterson and Arthurr Reingold

Objectives: To evaluate baseline and longitudinal mental health indicators and predictors among university student participants of the COVID-19 Safe Campus Initiative (CSCI) - a prospective cohort study from summer 2020. We hypothesized there to be a longitudinal change in mental health over the course of the study and for suspected predictors to be associated with these changes.

Methods: A survey was administered to university students living near the campus at baseline and end line to evaluate mental health indicators (anxiety and depression) and predictors. Univariate logistic regression analyses were completed to find longitudinal and baseline associations between mental health status and predictors.

Results: Baseline surveys were completed by 2409 students, including 782 undergraduate students (32.5%) and 1121 graduate students (46.5%). Participants with perceived concern about economic or housing stability, living alone, or food insecurity had a higher odd of baseline anxiety and depression. Participants who had a high concern of economic strain or housing stability, lived in campus housing, or experienced food insecurity had higher odds of incident anxiety or depression.

Conclusion: Universities may be able to make a difference in student mental health by providing further assistance that mitigates food insecurity, alleviates economic strain, and supports housing stability. Universities should frequently assess the mental health of students, investigate predictors unique to their campus, and target variables that university officials can effectively influence.

Published Date: 2021-11-08; Received Date: 2021-10-04