Ensuring the Success and Engagement of University Students in Times of Pandemic: The Issue of Mental Health

Line Tremblay,Michelle Brunette

doi:10.28984/drhj.v5i2.351

Abstract

Research suggests that mental health problems that were on the rise prior to the pandemic in the post-secondary education sector have worsened. The rise of mental health problems on university campuses poses significant challenges because of the links between mental health and academic success, perseverance, and obtaining a university degree. This article has two objectives. The first is to present an update on mental health on university campuses, including prevalence rates, risk factors and the impact on academic performance. The second objective is to present strategies to address the challenges posed by mental health through examples and programs. The conclusion underscores the importance of governments investing in programs and resources to address this issue.

Highlights

For more than a year, our world has been turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic
Public health guidelines required a rapid transition from face-to-face to virtual delivery teaching and learning
There is mounting evidence that the severity of COVID-19 pandemic causes (Arslan et al, 2020; Dutheil et, 2020) or increases stress levels in those who are already suffer with mental health issues (Alzueta, et al, 2020; Best et al, 2020; Dozois, 2020; First et al, 2020; Horigian et al, 2020; Karatzias et al, 2020; Koushik, 2020)

Summary

Introduction

For more than a year, our world has been turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. Research suggests that mental health risks in pandemic situations are estimated to be greater among youth (Alzueta, et al, 2020). Research in the past two decades point to an increase in mental health problems among university students (Armstrong & Young, 2015; Epstein et al, 2019; Ng & Padjen, 2019; Storrie et al, 2010). University students with mental health challenges may be at greater risk for increased symptoms during the pandemic. The first objective of this paper is to review the literature on the current situation relative to post-secondary student mental health and implications for academic perseverance and success. The second objective is to propose an approach to support academic success of both students affected emotionally by the pandemic as well as those with pre-existing mental health conditions. Examples are provided from the author's institution as well as from the literature

The Mental Health Situation

Findings

Conclusion