Levels of Academic Stress and Anxiety among Undergraduates at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Abstract

Academic stress and anxiety (ASA) are prevalent issues among undergraduates worldwide, often hindering academic progress and overall well-being. At the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), ASA remains a pressing concern due to the increasing demands of academic and social responsibilities [This sentence captures the specific problem of the study]. This study aimed to investigate the levels of ASA among undergraduates at UNN. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, with a sample of 400 undergraduates selected from a population of 39,139 students using a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected using a 19-item valid and reliable Level of Academic Stress and Anxiety Questionnaire (LASAQ). Mean and standard deviation were used to analyse and answer the research questions, while t-tests and One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to test the null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The results indicated moderate levels of ASA among participants, with no significant differences in academic stress based on age, gender, and year of study. Similarly, no significant differences in academic anxiety were found based on age and level of study, though a significant difference was observed based on gender (p < .05). Based on these findings, the authors recommended that universities implement gender-sensitive support systems and counseling programs to address academic anxiety. Students are also encouraged to adopt effective time management, self-care practices, and a healthy lifestyle to better manage stress and enhance overall well-being.