Prevalence and determinants of mental well-being and satisfaction with life among university students amidst the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Due to a lack of treatments and vaccinations, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a number of mental disorders, which have led to psychiatric symptoms and a lack of pleasure with one's life in students. Researchers found that perceived SWL and MWB dropped, which may be because students are more likely to experience mental health problems. The present study investigated the prevalence and determinants of mental well-being and satisfaction with life among university students in Bangladesh. Methods: An e-survey-based cross-sectional study was carried out from February to April 2021 among 660 students. A purposive sampling technique was employed in the study. Self-reported mental well-being and satisfaction with life psychological tools were also used. The e-questionnaire survey was conducted with informed consent, and questions were related to sociodemographics, satisfaction with life, and mental well-being scales. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were performed. The data were rechecked and analyzed with the R programming language. Results: The prevalence estimates of mental well-being and satisfaction with life were 27% and 13%, respectively. Of a total of 660 participants, 58.2% were male, and the rest were female (41.8%). Among the participants, 22.5% suffered the worst conditions regarding their financial conditions, and 16.5% badly sought a job for livelihood. Conclusion: The present findings revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic and long-term educational institution closure significantly affect students' mental health. Students' mental well-being was in vulnerable conditions, and their satisfaction with life was extremely poor. A comprehensive student psychological support service should be expanded to help students' mental health.