Influences of the Corona pandemic on health-related behaviors and stresses of students: A survey at the Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences

Abstract

Background: Students form the largest group at universities. Therefore, it is essential to establish a student health management concept for their health promotion. Due to their young age, students generally belong to a rather healthy population group. However, they may also suffer from health problems. Especially the effects of the Corona pandemic on the students should be considered. Objectives: The following article aimed how the context of the Corona pandemic influences health-related behaviors and stresses among students at Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences. Materials and methods: Based on a literature research, a questionnaire was created in order to assess students’ behaviors on the topics physical activity, nutrition, perceived stress, and addictive substance consumption. In all, 1281 students participated in the online survey. The results were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results: As a result of the Corona pandemic, students move less in their daily lives, have to reorganize their meal planning due to legal regulations, and are exposed to higher stress levels, e.g., due to changes in exam performance or the loss of a part-time job. The consumption of addictive substances remains virtually unchanged. Conclusions: The Corona pandemic is causing positive and negative changes in health behaviors and burdens among students. Nevertheless, further research is needed to look more comprehensively at the impact of the pandemic on students.