EMOTIONS OF STUDENTS IN THE ONGOING PANDEMIC

The covid-19 pandemic has introduced a vast range of challenges which have further produced a variety of emotions for students. Human beings are full of emotions and/or feelings, and although emotions are internal processes, there are outward physical signs of what people are feeling. In the past year and a half, social isolation has been at its peak with colleges and schools being shut down. While many students were initially happy about living with their families, in the comfort of their homes many have gradually reported feeling lonely and sad as the lockdown continued.

School and college students have faced high uncertainty with regard to examinations, their future along with dealing with loss and isolation. A large number of studies have found that college students are prone to feelings of loneliness, and they experience higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to the general population. During this time of social isolation and abrupt transitions, they are prone to further aggravating these feelings. A halt in extracurricular activities at school & college can cause students to feel less connected with their friends, organizations, and hobbies. All these months, students have shared the following:

• A very small proportion of students have been able to manage their emotions and remain hopeful as well as optimistic about the whole situation. They have focused on their growth and development.
• Most students have a fear of the unknown, the sudden changes.
• They are also scared for their lives and of their loved ones.
• Students feel confused & insecure about their future plans and career.
• Some have reported feelings of hopelessness as the lockdown seems to be a never ending situation.
• Spending a lot of time with their families in the same space, some students felt agitated and frustrated.
• Not being able to meet their friends and be a part of community gatherings, students felt lonely and sometimes even depressed.

With covid-19 being a direct threat to our life, everyone is either vicariously witnessing loss through media or directly witnessing it by becoming ill or experiencing the plight of loved ones. Another common feeling is that of moral distress, expressions of anger and resentment at witnessing injustice and lack of resources in the management of a national crisis. In times like these, it is crucial for individuals to reach out and ask for help. There are a multitude of organisations offering mental health services and helping people in the management & regulation of emotions. The overall health of students and individuals alike is of paramount importance.