Mental Health Instability: Effects of Covid-19 Pandemic on the Lives of College Students and their Coping Mechanisms

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant impact on day-to-day activities and interactions. Evidence showed that the pandemic prompted an increase in rates of mental health issues among people. Therefore, monitoring and management of the population's mental health during this pandemic became a major concern. This research aims to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing students' lives, focusing on mental health instability and coping mechanisms. It examines the demographic profile of nursing students, the pandemic's impact on learning styles, quality of life, and lifestyle, as well as its effects on emotional, psychosocial, behavioral, and cognitive aspects of mental health. The study explores coping mechanisms and analyzes the relationships between demographic factors, mental health effects, and coping strategies. The findings will have implications for supporting nursing students' mental well-being during the pandemic. The main drive was to determine how COVID-19 changed the lives of college students in MSEUF-Lucena City and its effects on their mental health. A descriptive evaluative-comparative-correlational research design was utilized to outline the area and define the limits. Likewise, correlational methods were used to determine whether or not there was a relationship that existed between the quantifiable variables and to what extent or degree the relationship was. The survey findings and research indicate that certain groups, such as young adults, females, and first-year students, have been greatly affected by the pandemic, experiencing higher levels of stress and mental health issues. It is crucial for educational institutions to prioritize targeted support for these groups. Mental health concerns among students must be addressed through resources and counseling services. Promoting healthy coping mechanisms and considering demographic differences are important for supporting students' well-being.