Epidemiology and psychiatric sciences

Mental health issues and related factors in 746,217 Chinese college students during the COVID-19 outbreak

Updated

Abstract

Among 746,217 college students surveyed, 45% reported mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Prevalence rates of probable , depressive, and were 34.9%, 21.1%, and 11.0%, respectively.
  • Having relatives or friends infected with COVID-19 was associated with a higher risk of mental health problems, with adjusted odds ratios ranging from 1.72 to 2.33.
  • Students exposed to media coverage of COVID-19 for 3 or more hours per day were 2.13 times more likely to experience acute stress compared to those with less than 1 hour of exposure.
  • Low perceived social support was linked to a significantly increased likelihood of anxiety and , with odds ratios between 4.84 and 5.98.
  • Senior year and prior mental health issues were also significantly associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Simplified

Key numbers

45%
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues
Percentage of students reporting , anxiety, or .
2.13×
Increase
Likelihood of symptoms for students exposed to media >3 h/day vs. <1 h/day.
4.84–5.98×
Social Support Impact
Increased likelihood of anxiety/depression for students with low vs. high perceived social support.

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