Examining the mental health of university students: A quantitative and qualitative approach to identifying prevalence, associations, stressors, and interventions

Abstract

ObjectiveTo identify the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation that would place university students at risk for mental health disorders. To explore the source of stressors and possible interventions that may benefit student mental health in a university setting.

Participants

University students (n = 483) who had been learning remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A mixed-methods cross-sectional survey was administered in 2020.

Results

Students were at an increased rate of depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation as compared to the general population. Female gender, lack of social support, living alone, being a first-generation college student and COVID-19 were significantly associated with mental health disorders. Stressors were identified and categorized into themes and interventions were recognized that may improve student well-being.

Conclusion

Students enrolled in university programs appear to experience significant amounts of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Additional mental health education, resources, and support is needed.

Keywords:

• Anxiety
• college students
• COVID-19
• depression
• suicidal ideation

Acknowledgments

The study team would like to thank Dr. Cindy Amyot and Mr. Richard Bigham for their support and guidance throughout the study process.

Conflict of interest disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. The authors confirm that the study presented in this article met the ethical guidelines, including adherence to the legal requirements, of the United States of America and received approval from the IRB of the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Funding

The study did not receive any grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial or not-for profit sectors.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, Melanie Simmer-Beck, upon reasonable request.