[The health of students during their education]

Longitudinal changes of health and well-being during the course of studies at the university have been rarely studied in Germany so far. Therefore, data were analysed from a cohort of 166 students who took part in a baseline survey as freshmen at the beginning of their studies and in a follow-up after two years. The questionnaire assessed the frequency of symptoms and complaints, psycho-social and study-related sources of stress and health attitudes and perceptions. Longitudinal trends were studied based on variables identified by factor analysis. The results showed no changes in physical health indicators (complaints and self-rated health status), while the mental stressors with respect to study demands, study conditions and private situation showed significant increases. On the other hand, there were moderate increases observed in health awareness and physical activity of students from baseline to follow-up. We conclude that the increase in perceived mental stress indicates a vulnerability during the initial study. In addition, the positive developments regarding health awareness of students during studies should be supported by health promotion measures at the university.