Exploring coping resiliency and depression among university students in a post-pandemic context

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives Emerging research investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has indicated mental health issues are particularly prominent among university student populations. Method The current research explored how a small sample of students in the UK had been impacted by the pandemic, focusing on coping resiliency and depression. In this study, 80 university students completed two self-reported measures of depression and coping resilience. Results Showed students’ levels of depression were relatively high, which negatively correlated with their coping resiliency. Students’ perspectives were further explored via open-ended questions. Anxiety was a big issue, and many students’ health had been impacted by the pandemic, which resulted in a change in their coping behaviours. Discussion The findings reflected areas of improvement concerning students’ university transition experiences to facilitate students’ psychological well-being and coping strategies, especially during such a crucial time of development into adulthood.