THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MENTAL HEALTH AND HIGHER EDUCATION IN ROMANIA

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v22.n5.3376

Keywords:

COVID-19, Higher Education, Mental Health, Psychological Impact, Romania

Abstract

The article analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of university students in Romania, emphasizing the prevalence of depression and suicidal ideation, as well as the mediating role of emotional intelligence, religiosity, and coping strategies. Conducted at 'Andrei Șaguna' University, the research involved 450 undergraduate and master's students, using standardized instruments such as the Beck Depression Inventory-II, the Multidimensional Religiosity Scale, and the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. The study identified a significant presence of depressive symptoms (29.3%) and suicidal ideation (5.8%), with a higher vulnerability among women and younger students. Longitudinal analyses (2021 - 2025) revealed an inverse relationship between depression and religiosity, confirming the protective role of spiritual and emotional resources in the post-pandemic adaptation process. The findings underline the need for multidimensional mental health interventions that develop emotional intelligence, promote adaptive coping, and integrate spiritual and community resources into academic support programs. Importantly, these insights can be adopted by university administrators to design effective support programs for students in the upcoming year, enhancing overall student well-being and academic success.

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Published

2025-12-01

How to Cite

Seceleanu, A., Papari, A., Papari, A. C., Șunda, I., & Garabet, B. I. (2025). THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MENTAL HEALTH AND HIGHER EDUCATION IN ROMANIA. Veredas Do Direito, 22(5), e223376. https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v22.n5.3376

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Vol. 22 No. 5 (2025): Veredas do Direito, v. 22, n. 5 2025

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Articles

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