Perceived psychosocial impacts of COVID - 19 among students in higher learning institutions in Dar - es- Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Students in higher learning institutions have been affected by COVID – 19 due to mobility restrictions that led to psychological disturbances and limited teaching and learning processes. This study examined the perceived psychosocial impacts of COVID – 19 among students in higher learning institutions in Dar es Salaam region in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect data from a sample size of 200 respondents. The findings revealed that there was moderate to severe perceived fear of COVID -19 infection among students. Anxiety and depression due to challenges encountered by students and the trauma and grief for loosing family members and friends were moderate to normal. The study showed further that COVID –19 had no impacts in cognitive functioning of the students. Students’ concentration in studies and attention in class was normal. The study revealed further that there was high access to information on the prevention against COVID – 19 among students. However, access to counselling services was low. Higher learning institutions should provide counselling services that address emotional impacts such as fear, anxiety, and stress. Psychological counselling should target to mitigate stress, anxiety, and depression among students. In addition, training on stress management and coping skills should be provided and enhanced.