Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among Students in an Island Higher Education Institution amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

As countries across the globe succumb to COVID-19, students found the new normal stressful. Students are particularly vulnerable to the adverse mental health consequence of strict guidelines such as lockdowns. This study employed a parallel mixed methods research design that aimed to determine the depression, anxiety, and stress levels, and explored the challenges encountered among college students at Saint Dominic College of Batanes, Inc., during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings served as bases for a wellness program. Survey questionnaires and a semi-structured interview guide were utilized to gather data. Frequency counts, means, percentages, chi-square test, t-test, ANOVA, and thematic analysis were employed to treat the data gathered from 92 students. Results showed moderate depression, severe anxiety, and mild stress among students. A strong significant link between age and depression was also found. Students between the ages of 18 and 22 exhibited moderate to extremely severe levels of depression, while those between the ages of 23 and 40 showed normal and mild levels of depression. In terms of age, depression, anxiety, and stress levels were significantly higher for the younger group than the older group. The challenges encountered by the students include lack of guidance and supervision, poor internet connection, psychological distress, limited access to technology, and teachers’ failure to meet students’ expectations. Results revealed that students cope by social support, managing tasks, changing environment, connecting with a higher being, motivating oneself, seeking advice, and borrowing and renting devices. Hence, proactive efforts are needed to support college students’ mental health.