Student School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University ludhiana, India
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health sciences students in India.
Objectives: To assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among health sciences students in India and evaluate their preparedness for dealing with widespread diseases in the future.
Methods: A survey-based study conducted in India, aimed to evaluate the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on 1002 health sciences students. The study used a combination of a pre-validated and pre-designed semi-structured DASS-21 questionnaire, as well as a self-made questionnaire. The self-made questions were designed to assess the future readiness of the target population in case of a similar event occurs in the future.
Results: Total of 1002 students were surveyed, out of which 50.8% reported experiencing anxiety, while 40.4% and 57.0% reported experiencing stress and depression, respectively. The study found no significant association between socio-demographic variables and depression, anxiety, or stress among the students. In terms of future readiness, 63.6% of the students expressed anxiety about the possibility of another pandemic, but 86.4% said they would be more prepared if it happened again. Additionally, 91.0% said they would use healthy coping mechanisms, 86.3% were willing to volunteer in future pandemics, and 85.8% felt they were prepared to withstand any negative impacts.
Conclusions: The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic was noticed at an alarming level in health sciences students. Universities and governments should promote awareness regarding psychological help among students and encourage mental health screening programs to combat the adverse psychological effects.
