Iranian University students’ stressors and coping strategies: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Although a certain amount of stress is essential, excessive stress can adversely influence the physiological and mental health. Hence, this study aims to assess common stressors and coping strategies among university students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted from October to November 2019 in Iran. Twelve students were recruited based on purposeful sampling to participate focus group discussions (FGD). Transcripts of three sessions of FGD were analyzed applying Graneheim and Lundman (2004) approach, and a thematic network was applied to illustrate the findings. RESULTS: The finding emerged 78 codes, 14 subthemes, and 4 main themes. Stressors were classified in two main themes, including individual stressors and the social ones. Behavioral strategies and the cognitive ones were among two categories of coping strategies. According to the thematic network, a full stress student affecting the precious stressors and the social, cultural, and the economic context may manage his/her stress applying the coping strategies. CONCLUSION: The findings revealed that university students experienced different kinds of stress, and usually, they do not apply right coping strategies. It is important to establish stress counseling programs for university students. Besides, it is proposing to provide 1st year university students with workshops about the cause of stress and effective coping strategies.