Depressive Disorders of Polish University Students During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the symptoms of depressive disorders manifested by 151 students—138 (91.4%) women and 13 (8.6%) men—studying at Polish universities after a year of the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) virus in the country. The study used a depression test by David D. Burns, consisting of 25 questions (described states), in which students had the opportunity to choose one of four answers, to which appropriate points were assigned: 0: not at all; 1: rarely; 2: sometimes; 3: often; 4: very often. 151 students from randomly selected universities located in the central, northern, and southern parts of Poland participated in the study. The study, recognised as a pilot study, was conducted from May to September 2021. At the time of the study, only half of the students were vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. The statistical analysis of test results was performed using Statistica 13.1 Dell Inc. software. Research results: The conducted research shows that the dominant symptoms of depressive disorders often manifested by students were: a sense of discouragement (33.8%), a sense of fatigue (33.2%), loss of motivation to act (27.8%), spending less time with family and friends (27.8%), sleep problems (26.5%), a poorer mood (25.8%), and difficulty making decisions (25.2%). On the other hand, very common symptoms of depressive disorders indicated by students were: feeling of exhaustion (34.4%), sleep problems (21.2%), loss of motivation to act (17.9%), feeling of discouragement (13.9%), problems with making decisions (13.2%), loneliness (13.9%), lack of interest in work and current tasks or actions (13.2%), feeling sad and depressed (11.9%), and worrying about their own health (11.3%). Based on these results, suggestions will be made within the scope of supporting well-being.