The effect of fear of contagion/being contagious on depression, anxiety and stress levels of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: University students are generally quite active in social life. It is thought that their fear of contagion/being contagious will affect their depression, anxiety and stress levels due to the removal of restrictions and the increase in individual responsibilities. This study aims to determine the effect of fear of contagion/being contagious on depression, anxiety and stress levels of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: This study, descriptive and cross-sectional. Quantitative data were collected using the Demographic Information Form, the Fear of Contagion/Transmission Scale and the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale. The sample included 3500 participants. Descriptive statistics were used for the presentation of the results. The STROBE checklist for cross-sectional studies was used in this study.

Results: This study revealed that the depression, anxiety and stress levels of university students were above normal, and these results were mostly associated with females, those with a chronic disease and high fear of contagion/being contagious.

Conclusion: The findings of this study may be useful for precautionary plans to support the psychological health of university students after the COVID-19 pandemic and in the fight against possible new pandemics. Considering the findings of our study, educational programs should be planned for youth in general and university students in particular to deal with depression, anxiety, stress and fears.

Relevance to clinical practice: The depression, anxiety and stress levels of university students were above normal. As the fear of contamination and contagion increases, the level of depression, anxiety and stress increases. Those with chronic diseases have high levels of depression, anxiety and stress.

Patient or public contribution: Research data were collected through an online questionnaire. Data collection tools were prepared on Google Forms, and then, links were shared with student groups over social media. Students shared the link on their social platforms, allowing it to reach wider audiences.

Keywords: anxiety and stress; being contagious; depression; fear of contagion; university students.