In:
International Journal of Social Psychiatry, SAGE Publications, Vol. 68, No. 5 ( 2022-08), p. 1036-1046
Abstract:
We aimed to identify the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and suicidality and identify relevant risk and protecting factors among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Georgia. Materials and methods: We conducted an anonymous online survey ( n = 984, convenience sample by approaching all universities in Georgia and some student organizations) using valid instruments (e.g., STAI to assess anxiety, CES-D for depression, and RASS to assess suicidality). We calculated frequencies and prevalence and applied regression analysis and Chi-square tests to identify risk and protecting factors. Findings: Respondents’ mental health had been significantly affected (with a high prevalence of depression (46.7%) and anxiety (79%)) during the pandemic (which coincided with political turmoil and caused an economic crisis) in Georgia. Some of the critical factors affecting mental health were: female sex ( p = .000), bad general health condition (anxiety p = .001, depression p = .004), finances (anxiety and depression p 〈 .001), reduced physical activity (anxiety p 〈 .001, depression p = .014), and a history of self-harming (suicidality p 〈 .001). Less family conflicts (anxiety and depression p 〈 .05), absence of nightmares (anxiety and depression p 〈 .001), moderate or low fears of COVID-19 (anxiety p 〈 .001), and lower substance use (anxiety p = .023) were among the potentially protective factors. International students coped better, despite vulnerability. Medical students had a lower risk of depression. Conclusions: In the complex socioeconomic context, mental health of students in Georgia suffered a lot during the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring thorough planning and delivery of student support services in higher educational institutions during and after the pandemic.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0020-7640
,
1741-2854
DOI:
10.1177/00207640221099420
Language:
English
Publisher:
SAGE Publications
Publication Date:
2022
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2066492-8
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