Factors associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress post-COVID-19, in university students: a cross-sectional study, Minas Gerais, 2023-2024

  • 0Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Post-pandemic, high rates of depression, anxiety, and stress were found in Minas Gerais university students. Female students and academic overload were risk factors, while higher family income and scholarships offered protection.

Area Of Science

  • Mental Health Research
  • Epidemiology
  • Higher Education Studies

Background

  • The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations like university students.
  • Pre-existing stressors in higher education may have been exacerbated by pandemic-related challenges, leading to increased psychological distress.
  • Understanding the specific mental health landscape of university students in post-pandemic Minas Gerais is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in university students in Minas Gerais following the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • To identify sociodemographic, clinical, and academic factors associated with these mental health symptoms.
  • To explore risk and protective factors influencing student mental well-being in the post-pandemic era.

Main Methods

  • A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 2,333 students from four federal universities in Minas Gerais.
  • The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was used to assess symptom prevalence.
  • Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified associated risk and protective factors.

Main Results

  • High prevalence rates were observed: 77.2% for depression, 76.8% for anxiety, and 77.3% for stress.
  • Risk factors included female sex, academic overload, and negative impacts on academic performance and future professional outlook.
  • Protective factors included family income of four or more minimum wages and student scholarships (for anxiety).

Conclusions

  • A significant proportion of university students in Minas Gerais experienced depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms after the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Psychosocial policies and interventions should leverage identified protective factors, such as financial stability and academic support.
  • Addressing the mental health crisis among students requires evidence-based strategies tailored to post-pandemic challenges.

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