Systematic review of mental health issues in university students (2020-2024) and analysis of the methodologies used
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2020Keywords:
Mental Health, Students, Higher Education, Systematic ReviewAbstract
Introduction: Mental health is essential in the training of future professionals; due to the fact it is closely linked to emotional skills by which students must be prepared to face a rapidly changing world. This study aims to conduct a systematic review of mental health issues affecting undergraduates between 2020 and 2024. Analyzing the methodologies used in the selected studies. Method: The PRISMA model was employed, and databases such as Web of Science and Scopus were consulted, applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The findings indicate that an adequate representation in the samples is of crucial importance for the validity of the results. Therefore, the lack of clear criteria restricts the generalizability of the findings. The more effective studies reflect the diversity of the student’s experiences. Additionally, it is important to highlight that complex challenges such as social isolation and emotional pressures—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic—were identified. Although methodological diversity was observed, there are limitations in sample representativeness and a predominance of cross-sectional studies was noted. Conclusions: The validity of educational research is based on how representative the samples are, and the transparency of their selection. While diversity in the research methods enriches the investigation field, the predominance of cross-sectional studies may restrict the ability to generalize the findings. Furthermore, challenges such as social isolation and emotional stress claim for inclusive approaches that consider student´s diversity, especially considering the aftermath of the pandemic that mankind had to live.
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