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Oliveira Alves LD, Paravidino VB, Gonçalves TR, Ferreira ALL, Gomes DV, Dutra-Malvar SGV, Cocate PG. Sedentary Behavior and Ultra-Processed Food Consumption Associated to BMI Changes in Brazilian Students During COVID-19. Am J Hum Biol 2024:e24165. [PMID: 39370655 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION University students experienced significant changes in their routines with the implementation of remote learning during Covid-19 pandemic, including increase in sedentary behavior (SB) time and ultra-processed foods (UPF's) consumption, which may have influenced changes in body mass index (BMI). OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between the variation in SB time and UPF's consumption with the variation in BMI, before and during the pandemic, in university students. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study, conducted between November 2020 and February 2021, with students from a public university of Southeast of Brazil, who answered an online questionnaire with questions regarding to the period before and during the pandemic. SB was assessed through questions about time spent on TV and electronic devices. A score of the frequency of UPF's consumption was estimated based on the Brazilian Food Guide. Self-reported information on height and body mass was used to calculate BMI. RESULTS The sample comprised 3390 university students, with an average age of 28.7 (± 10.0) years. Among them, 65.4% were undergraduates, and 66.9% were women. SB time, UPF score, and BMI increased significantly during the pandemic, compared to the previous period. In this population, there was a significant association between increased SB time (β = 0.06; SE = 0.01; p < 0.001) and UPF score (β = 0.08; SE = 0.01; p < 0.001) with an increase in BMI. CONCLUSION Changes in SB time and UPF score were associated with an increase in BMI before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in students from a Brazilian University.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas de Oliveira Alves
- Department of Physical Activity Biosciences, School of Physical Education and Sports, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vitor Barreto Paravidino
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Naval Academy-Brazilian Navy, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Rehder Gonçalves
- Institute of Collective Health Studies, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Lorena Lima Ferreira
- Department of Social and Applied Nutrition, National Institute Josué de Castro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Diego Viana Gomes
- Department of Physical Activity Biosciences, School of Physical Education and Sports, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Graziani Veloso Dutra-Malvar
- Department of Physical Activity Biosciences, School of Physical Education and Sports, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Paula Guedes Cocate
- Department of Physical Activity Biosciences, School of Physical Education and Sports, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Fagan MJ, Wunderlich KB, Faulkner G. Psychological distress among Canadian postsecondary students: a repeated cross-sectional analysis of the Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey (CCWS) between spring 2020-2023. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024:1-6. [PMID: 39083793 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2024.2382438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To examine trends in self-reported psychological distress among Canadian postsecondary students between 2020 and 2023. Participants and Methods: Using data collected from postsecondary students (n = 103,936) through the Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey (CCWS), multilevel regression models were fitted to determine how distress levels, as measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, differed across six-time points of the CCWS. Results: Across the cycles, students reported high levels of distress (mean across cycles = 26.16, SD = 8.61). Considering the impact of time on distress, when compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic, Fall 2020 (β = 1.4, p < .001), Spring 2021 (β = 1.2, p < .001), Spring 2022 (β = 1.6, p < .001), and Spring 2023 (β = 0.80, p < .017) had significantly higher levels of distress. Distress levels were associated with ancestry, age, gender, and sexual orientation. Conclusion: It is imperative to develop strategies and allocate resources to address the high levels of psychological distress among Canadian postsecondary students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Fagan
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kelly B Wunderlich
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Guy Faulkner
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Filiatrault M, Leblay L, Guay V, Desmarais C, Garnier A, Larose S, Litalien D, Mercier C, Saulais L, Drouin-Chartier JP. Relationship between COVID-19 pandemic-related experienced stress and lifestyle habits among university students from Québec, Canada. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024; 49:956-965. [PMID: 38518265 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Whether COVID-19-related experienced stress influenced lifestyle habits remains to be thoroughly evaluated among university students. This study examined the relationship between COVID-19-related experienced stress and subsequent lifestyle habits among undergraduate students. This cross-sectional study included 708 undergraduate students from Université Laval (Québec, Canada) participating in the Expériences Pandémiques (ExPan) cohort. Data on COVID-19-related experienced stress and lifestyle were self-reported using a questionnaire completed between February and April of 2022. A stress index (SI) was computed by summing scores associated with 31 situational statements related to the pandemic (e.g., not being able to see friends, dealing with job loss). A healthy lifestyle score (HLS) ranging from zero to seven was calculated based on seven lifestyle habits: moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, sleep quality, fruit and vegetable intake, tobacco and electronic cigarette use, alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and hard or sedative-hypnotic drugs use. In multivariable-adjusted models, a negative association between the SI and the HLS was found (β10% increment SI = -0.23, 95% CI = -0.30, -0.16 HLS point; P < 0.0001). The SI was also negatively associated with sleep quality, and fruit and vegetable consumption, while being positively associated with at-risk alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and hard or sedative-hypnotic drug use. Subgroup analyses suggested a negative relationship between the SI and HLS among participants who did not receive academic accommodations (e.g., additional time for evaluations, personal notetaker), but not those who received such accommodations. This study suggests that COVID-19-related experienced stress was negatively associated with healthy lifestyle habits in this cohort of undergraduate students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Filiatrault
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Lise Leblay
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Guay
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Desmarais
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale (Cirris), Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Adèle Garnier
- Faculty of Forestry, Geography and Geomatics, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Larose
- Research Group on Psychosocial Maladjustment in Children, Faculty of Educational Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - David Litalien
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Catherine Mercier
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale (Cirris), Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Laure Saulais
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Agri-food Economics and Consumer Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Philippe Drouin-Chartier
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Song X, Han D, Zhang J, Fan J, Ning P, Peng Y. Study on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Chinese college students: a cross-sectional analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1340642. [PMID: 38686032 PMCID: PMC11056571 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1340642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health of college students, prompting the need for universities to implement measures to mitigate these adverse effects. This study aims to assess the mental health status and mitigation measures of college students, identify the primary factors contributing to their mental health challenges, and provide suggestions for educational institutions to reduce negative psychological impacts. Methods In February 2023, a questionnaire survey was conducted among 1,445 college students. Statistical analysis was performed on the survey results, and multiple regression models were used to identify significant influencing factors and optimize the model. Results The study revealed correlations between factors affecting mental health during the pandemic, with interactions observed among some factors. Significant differences in mental health status were found among different groups of college students based on their information-sharing habits through apps and engagement in thesis research. Multiple regression analysis indicated that conducting academic research related to COVID-19 significantly increased the psychological stress of college students during the pandemic (p = 0.043). Among all mitigation measures, playing games demonstrated significant effectiveness in model analysis (p = 0.047). The optimization of the model showed that the multiple regression model considering the interaction of factors was more effective. Conclusion Our research identifies crucial factors influencing the mental health of college students and investigates the mental health status of various student groups. We recommend that educational institutions adopt proactive strategies and a multifaceted approach to support the mental health of college students and address potential issues that may arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Song
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Demin Han
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiajun Fan
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peishan Ning
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yong Peng
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, China
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García-Campanario I, Viñolo Gil MJ, Vanlinthout LE, Pérez Pérez C, O’Ferrall González C. Gender Differences Regarding Self-Perceived Physical and Mental Health in Spanish University Sports and Physical Therapy Students after Termination of the COVID-19 Lockdown Period. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:191. [PMID: 38255079 PMCID: PMC10815373 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented situation that raised concerns about the physical and mental health of adolescents. Several surveys demonstrated that post-lockdown, women reported more complaints and lower perceived quality of life compared to men. The aim of this study was to analyze gender differences in self-reported physical and mental health immediately after the second lock-down restrictions (July 2020 to December 2020) were suspended and physical exercise classes resumed after a break of several months. This was achieved using a comparative cross-sectional survey of over-18-year-old students from the faculties of Sports Science and Physical Therapy at the University of Cadiz (UCA) in Spain. Quality of life was assessed using two types of questionnaires. The first covered quality of nutrition (PREDIMED), and the second assessed emotional impact (SF12). Physical activity level was estimated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Of the 166 participants in this study, about two-thirds were men. Men had a better perception of their overall health quality than women. In addition, men had significantly fewer limitations in performing activities of daily living than their female counterparts. In contrast, female university students had better coping strategies, that is, they were better able to handle the problems of daily life and did so with more composure, attention, and concentration. These findings highlight the differences in post-release recovery between men and women and can be used to develop programs to promote better living standards and services to reduce gender disparities, which can ultimately improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael García-Campanario
- Grupo PAIDI UCA CTS391, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cadiz, Spain;
| | - María Jesús Viñolo Gil
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation of Cádiz, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain; (M.J.V.G.); (C.O.G.)
| | - Luc E. Vanlinthout
- Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Carlos Pérez Pérez
- Grupo PAIDI UCA CTS391, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cadiz, Spain;
| | - Cristina O’Ferrall González
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation of Cádiz, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain; (M.J.V.G.); (C.O.G.)
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Habe K, Dobrota S, Reić Ercegovac I. Functions of music, focused on the context of music listening, and psychological well-being in late adolescence regarding gender differences. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1275818. [PMID: 38179494 PMCID: PMC10764590 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1275818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Late adolescences, as a developmentally challenging transitional period between childhood and adulthood, provides a number of pressures that impact well-being of youth. Among approaches for facilitating well-being, music is reported to be one of the most effective ones, which was especially proven during Covid-19 pandemic. Given the significance of music and music listening in late adolescence, our study sought to examine the relationship between psychological well-being and music listening among university students (N = 603; Nfemale = 356, Nmale = 247) with a focus on the social, intrapersonal, and sociocultural context of music listening. The RESPECT music scale, the SPWB, and the PANAS were used to measure positive and negative affect as well as the six components of psychological well-being. The findings revealed that, while there were no gender differences in the sociocultural setting, females reported to listen to music more frequently than males in intrapersonal and social contexts. In two areas, female students rated their psychological well-being higher than male students: personal growth and positive relationships with others. They also reported experiencing positive and negative affect more frequently than men. Regression analyses revealed that the functions of music explained only a small amount of the variance in psychological well-being. Specifically, music listening in a social and sociocultural context significantly explained two aspects of psychological well-being: personal growth and positive relations with others. The intrapersonal context of music listening predicted a positive affect, while the social context predicted a negative affect. Our study highlights several implications of music listening in youth regarding gender either in everyday activities or in educational and clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Habe
- Academy of Music, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Snježana Dobrota
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Ina Reić Ercegovac
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Split, Split, Croatia
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Mejova Y, Hommadova Lu A. Gender in the disclosure of loneliness on Twitter during COVID-19 lockdowns. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1297983. [PMID: 38125758 PMCID: PMC10731375 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1297983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Loneliness has been shown to affect both mental and physical health, and was a major concern even before the COVID-19 pandemic. During the COVID-19 distancing measures, millions of people took to social media to express their feelings and seek social support. Methods In this mixed-methods study, we examine the self-disclosure of loneliness by users identifying as male or female (via self-disclosed naming conventions) on Twitter before and during the COVID-19 "lockdowns." Results We show that in the first two months of COVID-19 restrictions, self-disclosure of loneliness on this platform rose dramatically, and also have changed qualitatively. We find that female accounts tend to post more loneliness self-disclosures compared to male ones, even before COVID. Female disclosures more often center around pregnancy, family, and close relationships, whereas those posted by the male ones are more related to leadership, video gaming and sex. During COVID lockdowns, female accounts turn to online messaging apps and hobbies, and male become increasingly vocal in seeking partners. Discussion The insights of this study have important implications for the design of interventions for lessening the burden of loneliness in the current digitized world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anya Hommadova Lu
- Communication Studies, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, United States
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Wenig V, Heumann E, Stock C, Busse H, Negash S, Pischke CR, Heinrichs K. Associations of loneliness with mental health and with social and physical activity among university students in Germany: results of the COVID-19 German student well-being study (C19 GSWS). Front Public Health 2023; 11:1284460. [PMID: 38026349 PMCID: PMC10668152 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1284460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction University students are at high risk for loneliness with a potential negative impact on health. The COVID-19 measures disrupted students' academic routine and social life, which might have affected their perception of loneliness. This study investigated the prevalence of perceived loneliness among university students in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic and its associations with mental health, behavioral outcomes, and sociodemographic characteristics. Methods COVID-19 German student well-being study (C19 GSWS) collected data from five German universities from October 27th to November 14th, 2021, resulting in a sample of 7,203 respondents. Associations of loneliness with depressive symptoms, anxiety, social and physical activity, as well as sociodemographic characteristics, were analyzed using multivariable logistic regressions. Results A total of 20.6% of students reported loneliness. Students with depressive or anxiety symptoms had more than eight- or sixfold odds, respectively, for reporting loneliness (depressive symptoms: OR = 8.29; 95% CI: 7.21-9.52; anxiety: OR = 6.48; 95% CI: 5.65-7.43) compared with students who did not report any symptoms. Students who were less physically active were more likely to experience loneliness compared with students who were more physically active (no moderate physical activity: OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.21-1.59; no vigorous physical activity: OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.04-1.36). We found no association between loneliness and social activity. However, loneliness was associated with being single (OR = 2.93; 95% CI: 2.55-3.36), living alone (OR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.13-1.52), or having a temporary residency status in Germany (OR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.65-3.04). Conclusion Our findings highlight the importance of loneliness as a relevant factor associated with health. Further research is needed to determine potential protective factors to tackle loneliness and to investigate how study conditions at higher education institutions may affect students' perceived loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Wenig
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eileen Heumann
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christiane Stock
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Berlin, Germany
- Unit for Health Promotion Research, University of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Heide Busse
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology—BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Sarah Negash
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Claudia R. Pischke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Katherina Heinrichs
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Berlin, Germany
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Li C, Kang L, Miles TP, Khan MM. Factors affecting academic performance of college students in China during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional analysis. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1268480. [PMID: 38022931 PMCID: PMC10657195 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1268480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Understanding the factors that affected academic performance of students during the COVID-19 pandemic will help design effective interventions for improving students' academic performance during emergency situations as well as during regular academic environment. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the factors that explain academic performance of students in China during the pandemic. Methods Data on college students from the 2020 China Family Panel Studies were used, and the final sample consisted of 728 students. Ordered probit regression models were estimated to explain students' relative performance in the semester when the in-person classes were suspended by using various student and household-related variables and characteristics. To compute missing values in selected variables, a multiple imputation technique was applied. Results The odds of poor academic performance declined with higher Internet use for academic purposes, but Internet use for entertainment increased the probability of being in the poor academic performance. College students who spent more time studying on college work were less likely to have poor academic performance. Discussion This study identified the factors (Internet use and study time) associated with academic performance among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. These results can be used to design policies to improve educational outcomes and to address educational inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changle Li
- School of Health Management, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Lili Kang
- School of Health Management, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Toni P. Miles
- Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - M. Mahmud Khan
- College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
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Cheng T, Qiyi L, Fu H. A comparative study of subjective well-being, interpersonal relationship and love forgiveness among Chinese college students before and after the COVID-19 epidemic. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1229451. [PMID: 37575453 PMCID: PMC10416245 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1229451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
During the period that COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, Chinese universities have adopted a new teaching method combining online and offline and banned students from entering and leaving campus at will in line with the epidemic prevention policy. As a result, college students' learning and life styles have been greatly changed. In order to explore how the epidemic and specific prevention policies have influenced the psychology and behavior of Chinese college students, this study used three questionnaires of college students' subjective well-being, interpersonal relationship and love forgiveness to collect the data after the epidemic and compared with the data of college students before the epidemic. The result showed that before and after the epidemic, college students had obvious changes in their level of interpersonal relationship, subjective well-being and love forgiveness. Relationships among the three variables had changed. Meanwhile, the demographic variables of college students had certain changes in the three questionnaires. College students with and without romantic experience also had significant differences in the three questionnaires. It can be seen that the epidemic and specific prevention policies have a certain impact on the physical and mental health of college students, and there is also a gap in the forgiveness level of college students with and without romantic experience. These findings remind relevant departments that it should give greater consideration to the physical and mental health of college students, provide some references for dealing with new outbreaks and formulating the epidemic prevention policies subsequently, and suggest psychological counselors to change the way of dealing with the intimate relationship of college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Cheng
- College of Educational Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Qiyi
- College of Educational Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hong Fu
- College of Psychology, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Fong TCT, Chang K, Sit HF, Ho RTH. Associations between COVID-19 mental impact and distress, resilience, burnout and well-being in Hong Kong community adults: A structural equation model. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:1803-1817. [PMID: 37415290 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2229235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic poses substantial risks to individuals' physical and mental health and prolonged psychological responses to the pandemic could lead to emotional exhaustion. The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of COVID-19 related mental impact and distress in the relationship among resilience, burnout, and well-being. The present study recruited 500 community adults (mean age = 38.8 years, SD = 13.9; 76% females) in Hong Kong via an online survey in autumn 2021. The participants completed the Mental Impact and Distress Scale: COVID-19 (MIDc) and validated measures on resilience, burnout, and well-being. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to evaluate the psychometric properties of the MIDc. Direct and indirect effects of resilience on burnout and well-being via MIDc were examined via structural equation modeling. Confirmatory factor analysis supported factorial validity for the three factors of MIDc (situational impact, anticipation, and modulation). Resilience showed negative effects on the MIDc (β = -0.69, SE = 0.04, p < 0.01) and burnout (β = 0.23, SE = 0.06, p < 0.01). Burnout was positively associated with MIDc (β = 0.63, SE = 0.06, p < 0.01) and negatively associated with well-being (β = -0.47, SE = 0.07, p < 0.01). Resilience showed a significant and positive indirect effect (αβγ = 0.203, 95% CI = 0.131 to 0.285) on well-being via MIDc and burnout. The results support a potential mediating role for MIDc as psychological responses in the relationship among resilience and burnout and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ted C T Fong
- Centre on Behavioral Health, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kay Chang
- Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR
| | - Hao Fong Sit
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Rainbow T H Ho
- Centre on Behavioral Health, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
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Jakobsdottir G, Stefansdottir RS, Gestsdottir S, Stefansson V, Johannsson E, Rognvaldsdottir V, Gisladottir TL. Changes in health-related lifestyle choices of university students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: Associations between food choices, physical activity and health. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286345. [PMID: 37352179 PMCID: PMC10289399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound effect on our lives and society, influencing both individuals' lifestyles and habits. Recent research shows that anxiety and loneliness have continued to rise, along with changes in food and lifestyle choices. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the pandemic influenced food choices and consumption of energy drinks, alcohol, fruits, and vegetables among first-year university students. Additionally, assessing the relationship between mental and physical health, physical activity, and food choices. A total of 128 male and 128 female first-year students at the University of Iceland were invited to answer an electronic questionnaire in January and early February 2021. A total of 118 students (54% men) participated in the study and valid answers were 115 (46% participation rate). Almost half of the students (44%) experienced that their food choices had worsened, while 14% reported an improvement, compared to before the pandemic. Consumption of caffeinated beverages increased for 26% of students, while 19% experienced a decrease. Just over half of the students reported not drinking alcohol (13%) or reduced consumption (41%). Participants who reported that their mental health had deteriorated or remained the same tended to spend less time on physical activity and experienced worsened food choices (p<0.05). Similarly, those who spent less or the same time on physical activity estimated that their food choices had deteriorated (p<0.05). The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the lifestyles of university students and this study has revealed how lifestyle choices and mental health seem to be highly affected by one another. Additionally, the potentially harmful effects of excessive intake of energy drinks need to be enhanced. Interestingly, about 40% of the respondents in the current study drank less alcohol during the pandemic than prior to the pandemic, indicating a strong relationship between alcohol drinking and social gatherings. This study reveals the importance of educating young people on healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of mental health needs to be emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Jakobsdottir
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Runa Sif Stefansdottir
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Sunna Gestsdottir
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Vignir Stefansson
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Erlingur Johannsson
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Department of Sport, Food and Natural Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | - Vaka Rognvaldsdottir
- Center of Sport and Health Sciences, School of Education, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
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Hytman L, Hemming M, Newman T, Newton NJ. Future Time Perspective and Psychological Well-Being for Older Canadian Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF ADULT DEVELOPMENT 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37361381 PMCID: PMC9992910 DOI: 10.1007/s10804-023-09445-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Relevant literature indicates that one's perception of future time is related to their psychological well-being, particularly for older adults. However, more research is needed to understand this relationship in the context of COVID-19. Older adults may be especially vulnerable to the psychological impacts of the pandemic, but findings on their psychological well-being during COVID-19 are mixed. The current study examines relationships between Future Time Perspective (FTP), COVID-19 impact, and Psychological Well-Being, and how these variables change over 8 months during the earlier period of the pandemic. The current study explored these relationships in a sample of older women in Ontario, Canada, at two time points (Mage = 70.39 at T1), who completed online Qualtrics surveys. We used hierarchical linear regressions to test our expectations that COVID-19 impact would be negatively associated with psychological well-being, whereas FTP would be positively associated with psychological well-being, and that FTP would moderate the relationship between COVID-19 impact and psychological well-being. We found partial support for these hypotheses. Our knowledge of the relationship between FTP and psychological well-being would benefit from research that continues to explore different contexts and diverse samples, to enhance understandings of important differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Hytman
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Maya Hemming
- Department of Psychology, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Tal Newman
- Department of Psychology, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Nicky J. Newton
- Department of Psychology, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Canada
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Ferrer J, Iglesias E, Blanco-Gutiérrez I, Estavillo J. Analyzing the impact of COVID-19 on the grades of university education: A case study with economics students. SOCIAL SCIENCES & HUMANITIES OPEN 2023; 7:100428. [PMID: 36741347 PMCID: PMC9886649 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssaho.2023.100428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has been one of the major incidents in the global university education system in recent years. Its influence and effects on education are still difficult to determine today. Both students and teachers have had to change their study and work routines and disciplines, in many cases lacking the necessary infrastructure to adapt to online learning. Students had to start a new academic year with a complete return to face-to-face teaching without having overcome, in many cases, the incidence of online learning. This study, through 167 responses to a survey addressed to economics students at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, aims to analyse the causes of an improvement or a worsening of the academic performance of university students in the return to normality after having gone through COVID-19's restrictions. The results obtained show that students, students who attend tutorials and those who have evaluated online teaching positively, are the ones who have most improved their performance in the return to face-to-face teaching. And those who have suffered the physical and psychological consequences of COVID and those with less infrastructure and income have worsened their results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ferrer
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Statistics and Business Management, ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus Ciudad Universitaria, Av. Puerta de Hierro 2-4, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Iglesias
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Statistics and Business Management, ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus Ciudad Universitaria, Av. Puerta de Hierro 2-4, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- CEIGRAM, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Senda del Rey 13, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Blanco-Gutiérrez
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Statistics and Business Management, ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus Ciudad Universitaria, Av. Puerta de Hierro 2-4, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- CEIGRAM, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Senda del Rey 13, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julio Estavillo
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Statistics and Business Management, ETSIAAB, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus Ciudad Universitaria, Av. Puerta de Hierro 2-4, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Rivadeneira MF, Salvador C, Araujo L, Caicedo-Gallardo JD, Cóndor J, Torres-Castillo AL, Miranda-Velasco MJ, Dadaczynski K, Okan O. Digital health literacy and subjective wellbeing in the context of COVID-19: A cross-sectional study among university students in Ecuador. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1052423. [PMID: 36711373 PMCID: PMC9874317 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1052423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has generated an avalanche of information, which, if not properly addressed, generates uncertainty and limits healthy decision-making. On the other hand, the pandemic has exacerbated mental health problems among young people and adolescents, causing a worsening of their wellbeing. Previous studies have found that digital health literacy has a positive impact on people's attitudes toward the disease. This study aimed to analyze the association between digital health literacy on COVID-19 with subjective wellbeing in university students. Methods A cross-sectional study was developed in 917 students from Ecuador. Subjective wellbeing was measured with the World Health Organization WellBeing Scale. Digital health literacy was assessed using the Spanish-translated version of the Digital Health Literacy Instrument adapted to the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bivariate and multivariate linear regressions were performed. Results Digital health literacy and subjective wellbeing proofed to be significantly higher among males and among students with higher social status. The association between digital health literacy and subjective wellbeing was significant; for each increase of one point in the digital health literacy scale, an average increase of 9.64 points could be observed on the subjective wellbeing scale (IC 95% 5.61 - 13.67, p-value <0.001). This correlation persisted after adjust by demographic and socioeconomic variables. Conclusion Improving digital health literacy in health would improve the subjective wellbeing of university students. It is suggested strengthen the digital health literacy through public and university policies that promote access, search skills and discernment of digital information. Socioeconomic and gender inequalities related to digital health literacy need to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- María F. Rivadeneira
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health Institute, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador,*Correspondence: María F. Rivadeneira ✉
| | - Carmen Salvador
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Lorena Araujo
- General Students Office, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - José D. Caicedo-Gallardo
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health Institute, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - José Cóndor
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health Institute, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Ana Lucía Torres-Castillo
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health Institute, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - María J. Miranda-Velasco
- Department of Education Sciences, Faculty of Teacher Training, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Kevin Dadaczynski
- Department of Health Science, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany,Centre for Applied Health Science, Leuphana University Lueneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Orkan Okan
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
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16
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Zhang B, Lei SM, Le S, Gong Q, Cheng S, Wang X. Changes in health behaviors and conditions during COVID-19 pandemic strict campus lockdown among Chinese university students. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1022966. [PMID: 36324783 PMCID: PMC9621116 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1022966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore how a stringent campus lockdown affects the physical activity (PA), sleep and mental health of Chinese university students living in student dormitories during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Data on PA, sleep and mental health were collected between 24 March and 4 April 2022 from 2084 university students (mean age = 22.4 years, 61.1% male students) via an online questionnaire distributed by the students’ advisers of each dormitory. The Chinese short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-C), Athens Insomnia Scale (CAIS) and General Health Questionnaire 12-item (GHQ-12) were applied. The Mann–Whitney test and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to evaluate the PA profile differences between genders, before and during the lockdown period and between students’ living environments. Chi-squared (χ2) or Fisher’s exact test was used to assess changes in health behaviors by gender and students’ living environment compared to before the lockdown. A mediation model was used to examine whether sleep disorder mediated the relationship between PA and mental health in different students’ living environments. Results Participants reported a significant decrease in weekly total PA levels (63.9%). Mean daily sedentary time increased by 21.4% and daily lying time increased by 10.7% compared to before lockdown. Among the participants, 21.2% had experienced insomnia, and 39.0% reported having high mental distress. Female students reported 10% higher rates of sleep disorders than male students (p < 0.001), and also experienced a higher incidence of mental disorders (p < 0.001). Students living with three roommates had a larger decrease in frequencies and durations of participation in light PA than other students (p < 0.001). PA was negatively associated with sleep and mental health, and sleep disorder was a mediating factor between PA and mental health in the students living with two and three roommates. Conclusion This study showed that strict lockdowns within university dormitories during the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative effect on the health of university students by changing their health behaviors, physical activity and sleep. Our findings indicate a need for strategies to promote an active lifestyle for students in space-limited dormitories in order to maintain health during a prolonged lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyi Zhang
- Department of Physical Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Man Lei
- Faculty of Education, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Exercise Translational Medicine Center, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenglong Le
- Exercise Translational Medicine Center, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Physical Therapy, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Gong
- Department of Physical Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sulin Cheng
- Department of Physical Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Exercise Translational Medicine Center, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuqiang Wang
- Exercise Translational Medicine Center, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xiuqiang Wang,
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Nadareishvili I, Syunyakov T, Smirnova D, Sinauridze A, Tskitishvili A, Tskitishvili A, Zhulina A, Patsali ME, Manafis A, Fountoulakis NK, Fountoulakis KN. University students' mental health amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in Georgia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 68:1036-1046. [PMID: 35657336 DOI: 10.1177/00207640221099420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS 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.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timur Syunyakov
- V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria Smirnova
- Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, Psychotherapy and Clinical Psychology, International Centre for Education and Research in Neuropsychiatry,Samara State Medical University, Russia
| | | | | | | | | | - Mikaella E Patsali
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Manafis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
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Prevalence and Risk Factors of Poor Sleep Quality in Collegiate Athletes during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19053098. [PMID: 35270790 PMCID: PMC8910097 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19053098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lifestyle, sleep and physical activity habits. This study evaluated the prevalence of poor sleep quality, its disrupters, and the impact of the pandemic in collegiate athletes. We performed a cross-sectional study of collegiate athletes (N = 339, median age: 20 (IQR,19−21) years old, 48.5% female, 47% individual sports) who received a web-based questionnaire in April 2021. This survey included subject characteristics, chronotype, sleep disrupters, the changes due to the pandemic and sleep quality (Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]). A multivariate linear regression was performed to assess the relationship between sleep quality, gender, chronotype, sleep disrupters and the changes to training volume or sleep. Results showed a disrupted sleep quality in 63.7%. One in five students had a total sleep time under 6.5 h per night. Poor sleep quality was significantly correlated with nocturnal concerns related to the pandemic, evening chronotype, female gender, third year of study, caffeine consumption and lack of sleep routine (all p < 0.05). To conclude, poor sleep quality is common in collegiate athletes. Sleep disrupters remain prevalent in the lifestyle habits of this population and may have been exacerbated by changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sleep hygiene should become a major aspect of sports education during the return to post-covid normality.
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Battisti A, Lazzaro G, Varuzza C, Vicari S, Menghini D. Distance learning during COVID-19 lockdown: Impact on adolescents with specific learning disorders and their parents. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:995484. [PMID: 36339862 PMCID: PMC9627200 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.995484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transition of teaching from in-person to Distance Learning (DL) due to the COVID-19 pandemic led to negative effects on students' psychological wellbeing and academic achievement. The worst consequences have been experienced by students with so-called special educational needs, as well as by their parents. However, very little emphasis has been placed on the effects of DL in students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD). The present work aimed to evaluate the effects of DL during the COVID-19 lockdown in Italian students with SLD and in their parents. METHODS An online survey was administered to 92 students with SLD and their parents after the COVID-19 lockdown. The survey consisted of four sections: participants' demographic information; perceived stress related to general aspects (i.e., social and family determinants) as well as specific aspects related to DL; attitudes and feelings toward DL; and academic grades before and after DL. RESULTS Students with SLD perceived stress mainly from social isolation/distancing and DL (p always ≤ 0.0001), especially from online classes and oral exams (p always ≤ 0.0001). Students who did not benefit from appropriate accommodations (i.e., individualized teaching and learning methods) during DL perceived 3 times more DL-related stress than those who used them as in-person learning (OR = 3.00, CI 95%: 1.24-7.28, p = 0.015). Girls perceived more stress from online lessons (OR = 0.40, CI 95%: 0.16-0.96, p = 0.04) and use of devices (OR = 0.33, CI 95%: 0.14-0.80, p = 0.015) than boys. Negative feelings (less motivation, reduced ability to understand lessons, interact, and stay focused) and positive feelings (less anxiety and more self-confidence with its own rate of learning) toward DL emerged. Higher academic grades also was observed after DL (p ≤ 0.0001). Lastly, strong and positive correlations emerged between students' and parents' perceived stress during DL (p always < 0.001). IMPLICATIONS The present study prompts special considerations for students with special educational needs not only when providing conventional instruction, but especially when it is necessary to suddenly modify teaching approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Battisti
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Human Science, LUMSA University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Lazzaro
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Varuzza
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Life Science and Public Health, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Deny Menghini
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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