The Prevalence and Factors Associated with Anxiety in University Students in Benguela - Angola

Abstract

Introduction: Higher Education is more demanding than other educational cycles, due to the characteristics of its own nature, challenges and beliefs associated with it. Considering the importance of mental health for the development of students' academic potential and well-being, as well as the lack of credible indicators in the Angolan context, scientific production in this field has become increasingly important. Objectives: To identify the prevalence and analyze the factors associated with anxiety in university students in Benguela. Material and Methods: An exploratory study using quantitative data. A total of 447 students from the Instituto Superior Politécnico Jean Piaget de Benguela and the Faculty of Medicine at Universidade Katyavala Bwila, selected for convenience, took part in the study, the majority of whom were female (51.46%). The Beck Anxiety Inventory and a sociodemographic questionnaire were used to collect the data. Results:  It is confirmed that the prevalence of anxiety (26%), as in other studies, appears at a moderate value. Statistically significant differences were found between higher levels of anxiety and gender (p=0.000), stressful and difficult family environment (p=0.000), family psychological support (p=0.000), diagnosis of a mental disorder (p=0.000), diagnosis of anxiety in family members (p=0.000), chronic illness (p=0.000), psychological worn out (p=0.000) and quality of sleep and physical exercise (p=0.002).  Conclusion: In line with the scientific literature, it is clear that university students in Benguela feel psychologically distressed and need psychological support and intervention aimed at promoting mental health and, in particular, reducing anxiety levels.