Educational and health interventions in young university students: A systematic review
Abstract
Introduction. University students are in a stage of challenges and constant changes that generate sleep disturbances, depression, stress, decreased school performance and dropout among other problems. Educational interventions to improve health and wellbeing in this population could be effective in improving health; however, there is a knowledge gap in identifying the best educational interventions for university students that are effective in improving their health.
Objective: analyze the evidence available in the literature on educational interventions to improve the health behaviors of young college students.
Methods. PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. Articles published between 2022 and 2023 in English and Spanish were reviewed. That included educational interventions carried out on university student population.
Results. Seventeen articles were selected that reported results of various educational and technological interventions. All were aimed at promoting healthy attitudes and/or lifestyle behaviors. Different interventions were identified, highlighting those on nutrition education, sleep, mindfulness and music, as well as the promotion of physical activity and digital tools. The analysis demonstrated the importance of addressing university health in a comprehensive manner, considering physical, mental and sociocultural aspects. Interventions based on education and awareness represented the majority, followed by those related to mental health.
Conclusion. It is essential that education and health professionals address the challenges faced by college students through comprehensive educational interventions, considering diverse health spheres and cultural and regional differences.
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