COVID-19, Stress and Behavioral Aspects Among Students of the University of Georgia

Abstract Background Pandemics, state of emergency, restrictions and new regulations, new ways of thinking, teaching, learning, working and communicating. Transforming social environment, Covid-19 pandemics has greatly affected lifestyle of all people around the globe. In this matter, students are not an exception. The aim of the study was to describe self-reported stress and behaviors of students at the University of Georgia during Covid-19 pandemics. Methods In frame of online survey design, self-administrative semi-structured Questionnaires (Geo/Eng) were disseminated via UG's intranet. Target population was BA, MA and One-Cycle Program students with active status (6545). Questionnaires were available during two weeks. Results In result, 446 (CL = 95%; CI = 5) students participated in online survey. Students reported physiological, emotional, and cognitive symptoms they never noticed before moving to online learning due to Covid-19 pandemics. Both, local and foreign students reported headaches (30%) and Feeling of being depressed (25%). Fatigue (25%) and irritation (28%) was marked by local students, nearly 20% of foreign students marked hardness of dealing with the life problems. Changing of sleep and physical activity patterns were highlighted by both local and international students. In average, 55% students evaluated their sleep as deteriorated or very deteriorated. 60% of students could recall only 3 days or less when they walked for at least 10 minutes without break. 35% noticed increase or significant increase of body weight. Nearly 30% of students evaluated their stress level as 8; 9; or 10 at ten-point scale (0=no stress; 10=high stress level). Conclusions Study hasn't shown significant differences between local and international students. Negative changes were reported in physical and emotional level, physical activity and sleep patterns. Study results underlined importance of Further research and strengthening of supportive services for students during pandemics. Key messages Creating/strengthening of supportive services for students during pandemics. Integrate physical activity training into online lectures.