The psychological stress of returning to in-person institution-based educational activities by students in college and universities following the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract: BACKGROUND: COVID-19 necessitated a change in the educational delivery system during and following the pandemic. AIM: This study explored the psychological stress of the students about returning to in-person (face-to-face) education and examination following the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated factors. METHODS: It was a cross-sectional survey of college and university students returning to usual in-person education following COVID-19, conducted in Odisha from May to June 2022, through an online questionnaire. Students’ psychological stress, level of comfort, and future preferences were assessed, along with their COVID-19 history of self and family. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 304 students. A considerable proportion (37.5%) of them felt stressed about the return to the in-person education system following COVID-19. A history of COVID infection of self or a family member was significantly associated with stress, but not with taking COVID vaccines or medications for any current illness. Students reporting stress were significantly uncomfortable reverting to the usual in-person class or examination system, and a significantly higher proportion of them preferred online and hybrid (a mixture of online and in-person) methods. Major themes regarding stress were the continuing fear of COVID-19 infection, appearing examinations in-person after a gap of 2 years, and readjusting to the changes; however, some students looked at this positively for activities and socializations. It was evident that the stress of the changes has led to anxiety, depression, and a decrease in self-confidence among students. CONCLUSIONS: A proportion (37.5%) of students experienced stress as the education system reverted to the pre-COVID norms. This suggested the need to identify the affected students and arrange appropriate support.