A qualitative exploration of the psychological impact of COVID-19 lockdown measures on Irish university students

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has caused significant mentalhealth challenges across various populations but the psychological impact on universitystudents, who represent a population particularly vulnerable to psychological distress, are yet to be understood. Using a socio-ecological lens, this qualitative research used onlineinterviews to explore university students’ experience of COVID-19 lockdown and thepsychological impact of these measures. Coping strategies used by students to deal with these circumstances were also identified. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 Irish students during the third wave of COVID-19 (January 2021) and the strictest lockdown measures. Thematic analysis identified three themes which highlighted how students were ‘negotiating change’ (theme 1), both in terms of lifestyle, academic life and social interactions. As a result of these major shifts in lifestyle, many experienced ‘feelings of loss’ (theme 2) at an intrapersonal, interpersonal and organisational level. Despite these challenging experiences of change and loss, participants also reflected on the positive aspects of lockdown, such as personal growth and improved social and family relationships (theme 3). Close relationships, goal setting, and self-care were identified as key coping strategies. These findings expands existing research on the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted the important role of third level institutions in promoting students’ self-efficacy and personal development along with academic achievement.