Anxiety, stress and coping strategies among University of South Pacific students

This study set out to examine the relationship between stressors and coping strategies utilized by students, as well the prevalence of depression, anxiety and social dysfunction amongst this group within the cross-cultural framework of the University of the South Pacific (USP). Respondents included students from 10 countries served the University of the South Pacific. The research instrument constituted a questionnaire based on demographic variables plus three scales to elicit responses pertaining to stressors, depression and coping strategies. The findings highlight a number of variables that should be of at least some concern to the University with respect to the aforesaid areas mentioned. Regarding demographics, the data reveal a close parity between gender proportions, a relatively young student population and most of them transiting between the first and third years of studies. In terms of stress and depression, a minority of respondents reported stress-related problems and furthermore, small numbers made use of mental and counseling services provided by the University and other parties concerned. In terms of coping, quite a large number of coping variables were utilized by respondents in coming to terms with problems. The study concludes with implications regarding the role of USP in the light of stress and depression-related concerns revealed in the findings.