Capturing the Experiences and Challenges of Emerging Adults in College During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Emerging adulthood (ages 18-30 years) coincides with "aging out" of pediatric care. As a result, combined internal medicine and pediatrics (Med-Peds) providers are tasked with promoting the health and well-being of this population during and post-coronavirus disease 2019 . In order to inform the response efforts, we aimed to capture emerging adults' COVID-19 experiences and challenges during a two-week period of the pandemic in June 2020. We administered items from the California Health Interview Survey and an open-ended qualitative item via Qualtrics to 242 diverse emerging adults enrolled in a large US public university (mean age = 20.10, SD = 1.26). More than 90% of all students reported that they or their families or close friends experienced difficulties coping with the stressors and challenges presented by COVID-19. Almost half experienced financial difficulties and more than three-fourths experienced household disruptions during the pandemic. Qualitative findings underscored that these challenges were compounded by mental health and broader social issues. Recommendations for Med-Peds providers are provided to promote emerging adulthood health during and post-pandemic.

A National Cross-Sectional Study of the Characteristics, Strengths, and Challenges of College Students With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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Attachment Style and Its Relationships with Early Memories of Separation Anxiety and Adult Separation Anxiety Symptoms among Emerging Adults

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A Qualitative Investigation of the Positive and Negative Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Post-Secondary Students’ Mental Health and Well-Being

“…As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, post-secondary students worldwide have experienced a wide array of new and unprecedented challenges. These challenges have included stressors faced by the general population, such as increased social isolation stemming from social distancing guidelines, lockdowns, and stay-at-home orders ( Hotez et al, 2021 ; Kujawa et al, 2020 ). In addition, students have experienced stressors unique to the post-secondary context.…”