COVID-19 pandemic and its psychological impact among healthy Portuguese and Spanish nursing students

Abstract

Health Psychology ResearchFew studies have explored the impacts of COVID-19 and lockdown on the mental health of undergraduate nursing students. This study aimed: a) to explore perceived stress among undergraduate nursing students in Portugal and Spain during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak; and b) to analyze several COVID-19 related factors and psychological issues that may be associated with perceived stress. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of Portuguese and Spanish undergraduate nursing students (n=1075). The data gathered included demographic information, questions about COVID-19 related factors, and psychological issues. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression with a degree of significance at p<0.05. High perceived stress scores were found in 558 participants (51.9%). Students with high perceived stress most likely had a COVID-19 diagnosis in their household; their household income had been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic; experienced difficulty falling asleep or sleeping all night; consumed junk food in excess; neglected their appearance; felt headaches, stomach aches, and back pain; and lacked the patience or desire to exercise. Additionally, high perceived stress was negatively associated with life satisfaction. The results provide evidence that infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, may significantly influence mental health. Further research should explore the long-term psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic among nursing students.

Predictive Model of the Psychological Well-Being of Nursing Students During the COVID-19 Lockdown

“…Other factors were associated with the students’ experience of stress, such as the concern that they themselves (x = 3.15) or a family member (x = 4.51) might become infected with COVID-19. This concern has already been identified in other studies ( Laranjeira et al, 2021 ; Sui, Gong, & Zhuang, 2021 ).…”

Psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on nursing students in the first wave: A cross‐sectional survey

“…Another study has shown an association between the consumption of sugary and carbonated drinks and fast food, and sleeping disorders due to anxiety in adolescents (Khan & Uddin, 2020). Laranjeira et al (2021) also shown an association between psychological impact and excess consumption of junk food. However, the association between increased anxiety and the consumption of coffee and stimulating drinks could just be a consequence of this consumption.…”

Mental Health and Psychological Impact during COVID-19 Pandemic: An Online Survey of Portuguese Higher Education Students

“…Restrictions due to the pandemic delayed numerous clinical teachings and consequently the development/completion of courses, further aggravating the students’ signs of distress. The rapid changes imposed upon higher education students, from the suspension of classes to the declaration of a state of emergency, triggered difficulties in adaptation and less positive emotional states [ 40 ].…”

“…The study by Maia and Dias [ 39 ] explored the levels of anxiety, depression, and stress in Portuguese university students, indicating a significant increase in psychological disturbance during the pandemic period (between suspension of classes and the declaration of a state of emergency in Portugal) compared to normal periods. Another study with students from six higher education institutions in Portugal and Spain, during May 2020, found high perceived stress scores (51.4%) [ 40 ].…”