Abstract:
Students in higher learning institutions have been affected by COVID – 19 due to
mobility restrictions that led to psychological disturbances and limited teaching and
learning processes. This study examined the perceived psychosocial impacts of
COVID – 19 among students in higher learning institutions in Dar es Salaam region
in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and
quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect data from a sample size of 200
respondents. The findings revealed that there was moderate to severe perceived
fear of COVID -19 infection among students. Anxiety and depression due to
challenges encountered by students and the trauma and grief for loosing family
members and friends were moderate to normal. The study showed further that
COVID –19 had no impacts in cognitive functioning of the students. Students’
concentration in studies and attention in class was normal. The study revealed
further that there was high access to information on the prevention against COVID
– 19 among students. However, access to counselling services was low. Higher
learning institutions should provide counselling services that address emotional
impacts such as fear, anxiety, and stress. Psychological counselling should target
to mitigate stress, anxiety, and depression among students. In addition, training
on stress management and coping skills should be provided and enhanced.
