Academic and Emotional Challenges beyond COVID-19. Analysis of Years and Branches of Study in 35 Spanish Universities

Abstract

Background: Evidence indicates an increasing prevalence of psychological issues among university students, exacerbated by COVID-19. However, conclusive data on the situation in Spanish universities is lacking. Objective: This study explores academic, interpersonal, and emotional problems, as well as the differences between years and branches of university studies. Method: 5,221 students from 35 Spanish universities completed an online questionnaire covering standardized tests. Results: The mean scores show students overwhelmed by academic work, struggling to distance themselves from personal problems and seeking help, with stress and physical discomfort, and emotional symptoms consistent with a probable clinical case of anxiety. Students report declines in attention, concentration, and emotional well-being due to the pandemic. Factorial ANOVAs showed a high transversality of the problems between years of study but identified differences between study branches. Conclusions: The results offer valuable information for university psychological support services to assess identified issues and develop specific interventions among students.

Keywords

• university students
• post-pandemic
• academic overload
• anxiety
• stress
• attentional difficulties
• psychoeducational intervention
• branches of knowledge