Cross-lagged relationship between anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance among college students during and after collective isolation

ObjectRepeated quarantine policies over the past 3 years have led to poor psychological consequences for the public. Previous studies have proved that the quarantine policy leaves individuals vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and insomnia, especially among college students. This study aims to explore whether psychological problems during isolation continue with the release of isolation. MethodsOverall, 2,787 college students both answered a web-based survey during and after the closure management was lifted. The Patient Health Questionnaire, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, and Youth Self-rating Insomnia Scale were measured. The cross-lagged path model was used to explore the influence of psychological impact during isolation on the individual after the release. ResultsWe found that anxiety and sleep disturbance levels alleviated significantly after quarantine, except for depression. As expected, a bidirectional relationship exists between anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance. Moreover, depression and sleep disturbance can predict post quarantine depression, sleep disturbance, and anxiety, yet anxiety cannot predict sleep disturbance afterward. ConclusionTimely and effective intervention for anxiety, depression, and insomnia during isolation is essential for individuals to repair themselves quickly after the release.

Automated summary

Repeated quarantine policies in the past 3 years have had negative psychological consequences, especially among college students. A study was conducted to explore whether psychological problems continue after the release of isolation. The results showed that anxiety and sleep disturbance levels improved significantly after quarantine, while depression did not improve. The study also found a bidirectional relationship between anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance, and that depression and sleep disturbance can predict post-quarantine mental health issues, but anxiety cannot predict subsequent sleep disturbances. Therefore, timely and effective intervention for anxiety, depression, and insomnia during isolation is crucial for individuals to recover quickly after release.