Presentation Type
Presentation
Faculty Mentor’s Full Name
Melissa Holmes
Faculty Mentor’s Department
Computer Science
Abstract / Artist's Statement
University Students and COVID-19: The Impacts From This Pandemic on Mental Health
This study explores the mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on University of Montana students. COVID-19 has had a notable effect on many aspects of life: economic, health, social, and academics. While these areas individually are objectively measurable, the aspect of mental health is more difficult to assess. Survey research was used to measure the impact of COVID-19 on University of Montana students. Participants also reported how these impacts have affected their relationships with these areas of life. While the survey responses are anonymous, we have reached out to several individuals attending University throughout the world who have volunteered to be interviewed. These interviews helped us to better compare how University of Montana and its students are being affected by and dealing with the COVID- 19 pandemic compared to other schools at an international level. Demographic information of all participants was collected for understanding and generalizing the results. No participants were excluded on the basis of any demographic factor. Data was collected over the course of several months, and we are categorizing and analyzing the results for trends. It is expected that at least 80% of students will report mental health impacts of COVID-19. We are hoping that a combination of the results of the survey and our interviews will shed some light on the importance of prioritizing mental health, especially in a global pandemic.
Category
Franke Global Leadership Initiative
Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on UMT Students' Mental Health
University Students and COVID-19: The Impacts From This Pandemic on Mental Health
This study explores the mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on University of Montana students. COVID-19 has had a notable effect on many aspects of life: economic, health, social, and academics. While these areas individually are objectively measurable, the aspect of mental health is more difficult to assess. Survey research was used to measure the impact of COVID-19 on University of Montana students. Participants also reported how these impacts have affected their relationships with these areas of life. While the survey responses are anonymous, we have reached out to several individuals attending University throughout the world who have volunteered to be interviewed. These interviews helped us to better compare how University of Montana and its students are being affected by and dealing with the COVID- 19 pandemic compared to other schools at an international level. Demographic information of all participants was collected for understanding and generalizing the results. No participants were excluded on the basis of any demographic factor. Data was collected over the course of several months, and we are categorizing and analyzing the results for trends. It is expected that at least 80% of students will report mental health impacts of COVID-19. We are hoping that a combination of the results of the survey and our interviews will shed some light on the importance of prioritizing mental health, especially in a global pandemic.