Stress reponses and adaptation among undergraduate students of Ahmadu Bello University Samaru, Zaria

Undergraduate students are prone to stress due to traditional character of university life. High levels of stress are believed to affect students’ health and academic function. However, effective coping strategies may assist the return to a balance state, reducing the negative effects of stress. The aim of this study was to determine the level of stress, source of stress and coping strategies adopted by the students. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study in which 400 stress survey questionnaires were distributed to the students of selected faculties. The 386 completed questionnaires were collected and data analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that undergraduate students reported high level of stress related to academic pressure and financial demands. Most students reported academic, environmental and intrapersonal factors as their sources of stress. The coping strategies used by the students were self-reliance, seeking spiritual support and investing in close friends. The researchers recommended proper orientation, counseling services and financial support to the students.