EMERGING ADULTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE IMPACT OF COVID ON MENTAL HEALTH: A MIXED METHODS STUDY

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health of emerging adults, who must navigate the tasks of early adulthood. This mixed methods study used surveys and focus group interviews to examine emerging adults' perceptions about the effects of COVID-19 on their mental health and supports available to them during the pandemic. Sixteen 18-25-year-old undergraduate and graduate level students attending a private university in southern United States participated in a study approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the author's university. Their survey responses indicated effects of COVID and thoughts of COVID on their sleep, appetite, and grades. They reported not feeling supported by their school during the lockdown. However, the majority feel happy at least sometimes with how things are currently going in their life. Themes from focus group responses shed light on negative effects of lockdown and non-optimal home life. They also highlighted unmet support needs and the extra steps participants had to take to access resources. In contrast, there were protective factors connections and supports, movement and exercise, resilience and positive relationships served as buffers for emerging adults and predicted positive outcomes. Moving forward, it is crucial that we prioritize easy access to counseling and mental health services, breaking down barriers for students seeking support. Additionally, fostering collaboration between college campuses, professionals, and students can lead to the development of workshops, curricula, and programs aimed at promoting healthy coping skills and overall well-being of emerging adults.