Table 2

Themes and categories

ThemesCategories
Impact of COVID-19 on students’ well-being
  • Anxiety and fear

  • Effect of financial adversity amidst COVID-19 pandemic

  • Effects of media on emotional well-being

  • Impact of social distancing on feelings and thoughts

Effect of COVID-19 on students’ academic life
  • Academic concerns and anxiety

  • Burden of assignments and examinations

  • Struggle during self-study

  • Lack of interaction and engagement

  • Academic progress and future career

  • Challenges of online classes

Current coping mechanisms adopted by students
  • Connecting with family and relatives

  • Indulging in diverse activities

  • Academic support from faculty and senior students

  • Academic support from the university administration

Future recommendations to address students’ concerns
  • Arranging online mental health services for students

  • Integrating an online medium in existing academia

  • Role of government to support students