FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ANXIETY IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the main factors associated with anxiety among university students. Materials and methods: this study is an integrative literature review conducted through a bibliographic survey. Studies were searched in the Google Scholar, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), PubMed, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) databases, using the keywords “anxiety” and “university students.” Results: anxiety among university students is associated with multiple factors—including academic, emotional, and sociodemographic aspects—with higher prevalence among female students and those with low family income. It is triggered by the demands of academic life, the heavy workload during their education, and constant concern about their professional future. Conclusion: There is a need for higher education institutions to adopt measures for mental health promotion and prevention—including strengthening psychological support services and student support programs—to ensure student well-being throughout their university education.