Ensuring the Success and Engagement of University Students in Times of Pandemic: The Issue of Mental Health

Abstract

Research suggests that mental health problems that were on the rise prior to the pandemic in the post-secondary education sector have worsened. The rise of mental health problems on university campuses poses significant challenges because of the links between mental health and academic success, perseverance, and obtaining a university degree. This article has two objectives. The first is to present an update on mental health on university campuses, including prevalence rates, risk factors and the impact on academic performance. The second objective is to present strategies to address the challenges posed by mental health through examples and programs. The conclusion underscores the importance of governments investing in programs and resources to address this issue.