The influence of physical culture and sports activities on stress reduction among university students

The purpose of the study is to identify whether students experience stress during their university studies, to determine significant methods of combating stress, and to assess the impact of physical education and sports activities on reducing stress among students. Research methods and organization. Methods of analysis of scientific and methodological literature were used; surveys (interviews, questionnaires); pedagogical observation; methods of mathematical statistics. Empirical research was conducted during the 2023/24 academic year. Students from full-time, mixed-mode, and part-time study formats participated in the questionnaire. Research results and conclusions. It has been revealed that the majority of students of all forms of education experience academic stress. For most students, the manifestations of stress include: anxiety and worry; reluctance to engage in activities, passivity; and fatigue. The main methods for combating stress among students are: communication with friends and family, passive rest, hobbies, and physical activity. Only 21.4% of students regularly engage in physical education and sports (in groups or independently); participation in physical education and sports positively influences the reduction of academic stress among students. Measures have been identified that should be taken at universities to reduce the level of stress among students, including measures aimed at improving the effectiveness of physical education.