COVID-19: Ramifications and Effects on University Healthcare Students

AIM:This study was carefully designed to analyze the perceived psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among Roseman dental students. Students assessed their perceived changes in stress, self-esteem, and lifestyle behavior changes based on the impact of the pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS:A self-designed, anonymous, 18-item questionnaire was administered to Roseman dental students after being approved by the Institutional Review Board. Independent samples t-test and one-way ANOVA were utilized for comparison of psychological factors toward gender, as well as year of study. Chi-square correlations between stress and self-esteem, as well as lifestyle behavior, were also reported.RESULTS:In total, 313 students with a mean age of 28.15 (SD:4.21) completed the survey. Statistically significant differences were shown between students based upon age and year of study, with regard to stress and lifestyle behavior changes. Cross-tabulations of stress with self-esteem and lifestyle behavior changes showed positive relationships, as students with higher levels of stress showed significant self-esteem problems and lifestyle behavior changes. The largest frequency of stress/anxiety and lifestyle behavioral changes was found in the age range of 25-34 years old, particularly in the Class of 2024 and 2025.CONCLUSION:The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a significant psychological impact on dental students at Roseman. However, further studies are needed to assess the long-lasting impacts of the pandemic on University healthcare students as a whole.CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:The pandemic has not only affected the way in which dental students progress academically but also as healthcare providers now and into the future.