Predictors of COVID-19 anxiety in UK university students

The current research aimed to evaluate UK student mental health during the first 4 months of COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we were interested in exploring factors that contribute students’ anxiety levels about COVID-19. Demographics, symptomatology and well-being-related variables tested as predictors anxiety. A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 1,164 university students (71.8% females). Measures included self-reported data on stress, social phobia, anxiety, depression, psychotic-like experiences, hopefulness, group membership, identity, belonging, loneliness, related demographics. majority participants between 18 24 years old (92.2%), White British (57.9%) or second year their course study (63.12%). series multiple linear regressions revealed being female, experiencing more stress greater worry its effects relationships significant explaining pandemic-related Students’ level independent ethnicity, socioeconomic background pre-existing problems. Worrying future most common stressor, but it not a predictor Our findings are line with previous females have been disproportionately affected could inform delivery targeted stress-management interventions might prove beneficial for wellbeing.