ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA STUDENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, reports of anxiety and depression within college students are higher than pre-pandemic. The already persistent mental health crisis has only worsened in the past couple of years due to the chaos of illness, loss, and isolation. The University of Arizona and other colleges around the world, must learn how to tend the needs of its students, and craft a plan that will allow for a smooth transition into and out of online learning. Research from pre-COVID reports the most prominent causes of depression and suicide in college students. The greatest of these causes include romantic relationships, family troubles, and maintaining grades. Results from a University of Arizona Campus Health survey in May 2020 showed that fear of illness, the potential infection or loss of a family member, and juggling school took the greatest toll on students. These apparent psychological issues, all have physiological explanations. Serotonin, and important component in neuroendocrine signaling within the brain, as well as the brain structures themselves, and common genetic mutations all play a part in the biology of depression. Serotonin levels along with illness, loss, and traumatic events all have direct physical effects on the body. SSRI’s and counseling have shown promising results as treatments for depression. The mental health challenges presented pre and post-COVID are very similar, meaning changes put in place now, like greater access to counseling and psychiatric services can help students regardless of the pandemic.