The mental and behavioral health impact of COVID-19 stay at home orders on social work students

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting stay at home orders have had significant effects on mental and behavioral health. College and University students are at particular risk of mental and behavioral health issues due to the social distancing, stay at home orders and the abrupt shift from face-to-face to online learning. This study aimed to determine the impact that stay at home orders have on health behaviors such as mental health, physical activity, screen-time, and alcohol consumption have on social work students. Results indicated a statistically significant increase in anxiety and depression scores during the pandemic as compared to prior to the pandemic. In addition, there was a significant increase in screen time during pandemic as compared with prior to pandemic. The results of this study suggest a need for increased support for student during social distancing and stay at home orders. Implications for social work education are also discussed.