COVID-19 Pandemic - A Review and Assessing Higher Education Institution Undergraduate Student’s Mental Health

Abstract

Introduction: The current COVID-19 pandemic has sequelae reverberating around

Malaysia, particularly in university students, as Malaysian university students are isolated

in their university campuses in semi-quarantine status. This article seeks to review the

existing literature on the specialized issue of university student-related psychological

sequelae of COVID-19, and seeks to offer some recommendations through the process.

Methods: Existing literature demonstrates that COVID-19 has affected university students

psychosocially, with the rate of anxiety and depression markedly increased. There have

been significant alterations of lifestyle related to education, in accordance with the new

normal, resulting in isolation and feelings of disengagement with education. Moreover,

with the current uncertainties regarding their studies and possible financial depression postpandemic,

the future is deeply worrying and will adversely affect their mental health.

Results: Quantitatively, recent findings indicate 33.3% of the undergraduates in a higher

education institution are noted to be in stress. Therefore, multiple interventions have been

implemented; a customized ultra-brief psychological module, an online tele psychiatry

hotline (COVID Cares) and tele-counselling, which have received universally positive

feedback.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the review demonstrates that undergraduates’ psychological

health is an aspect that needs urgent attention as it is not merely limited to the fear of

COVID-19, but also related to the social aspects of the pandemic. Multiple interventions

have been seen to be efficacious in reducing the psychological sequelae.