Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health Behaviors Students of the Calisia University in Kalisz

Abstract

Abstract The onset and rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in 2019 was the reason why WHO announced a number of restrictions related to population movement, gathering, limiting access to cultural, recreational, and sports facilities. Most schools and universities moved to a hybrid or fully remote mode of teaching. Studies show that regulations aimed at reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2, including home isolation, negatively affected students’ mental state, motivation to work and study. The purpose of this study is to assess the health behaviors of Calisia University students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A questionnaire comprising 16 questions was developed. The questionnaire was introduced into the Survey Monkey electronic survey system with a note explaining the purpose of the study. On June 22, 2022, a link to the questionnaire was e-mailed to all students (n=1,425) of the Calisia University. A reminder was sent to the students two weeks later. Results On the basis of our study, it was found that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the students of the Calisia University. Some of the students suffered from the disease, which consequently affected their physical condition. During the pandemic, no significant increase in anti-health behaviors, such as smoking cigarettes or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, was observed in the students. For most of the respondents, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on their mental state. In addition, the pandemic had an adverse effect on the economic situation of the surveyed students. Conclusions No significant increase in anti-health behavior was observed in students during the pandemic. Respondents claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on their mental state and definitely worsened their economic situation.