Mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 and perceptions towards the pandemic: Findings from a cross sectional study among Bangladeshi students

Although the COVID-19 pandemic triggered commination on both physical and mental wellbeing since its outbreak, the impact of the pandemic on mental health difficulties among Bangladeshi students is still lack in substantial evidence. The study aimed to explore such an impact on mental health among Bangladeshi students and their perception towards the COVID-19 pandemic. A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 589 students from Bangladesh in between April 29th to 7th May 2020. Data was collected by using an online questionnaire on demographic status, perceptions towards COVID-19, and mental health symptoms by using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS 21). About 26.66% and 61.97% of students reported mild to extremely severe anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms, respectively, and 57.05% reported mild to extremely severe levels of stress. Multivariate logistic regression reported that students’ age, gender, family income, residence, and family size are associated with mental health difficulties. Negative perceptions on the effect of the pandemic on life events, mental health, disruptions in education, and health care system, existing physical health conditions, and COVID-19 like symptoms were significantly associated with poor mental outcomes. It is suggested that students' mental health difficulties should be monitored to provide adequate support and services during this ongoing pandemic.