Academic stress as a predictor of mental health in university students

Abstract

Identifying the relationship between academic stress and mental health of undergraduate university students is crucial for reducing and understanding its negative effects, enhancing students’ ability to cope with stressful situations, and thereby reducing the harm it causes on academic performance and overall well-being. This study aims to examine the correlation and predictive value of academic stress on mental health in undergraduate university students. A representative sample of 1,265 undergraduate university students from a private university in Bolivia was assessed using Pearson’s correlation analysis to determine the predictive value of academic stress on mental health. To validate the measurements obtained, a stepwise Hierarchical Multiple Linear Regression analysis was applied. A probability model was estimated to identify academic stressors that contribute to the probability of students experiencing Languishing Mental Health. The study revealed that Self-inflicted Stress was the most significant stressor among undergraduate students. This indicates that students’ self-demands and self-efficacy perceptions are essential factors in the development of high academic stress levels. There is a clear correlation between high levels of academic stress and the probability of experiencing Languishing Mental Health.