Estudio documental sobre adultez emergente y salud mental en entornos académicos-laborales.

Abstract

Emerging adulthood is characterized by individuals seeking personal autonomy, emotional stability, and professional advancement. In the university context, this involves the transition between academic demands and their connection to the workplace, which increases vulnerability to developing episodes of anxiety, depression, and stress. The objective of this study was to analyze the experiences of depression and anxiety among university students in Guayaquil during their emerging adulthood, considering the influence of the academic environment on their psychological well-being. The study employed a qualitative, descriptive approach focused on establishing that university students in emerging adulthood experience high levels of anxiety and depression related to academic workload, performance demands, and pressure to perform. Experiences of emotional distress, academic burnout, demotivation, and negative impact on personal life were identified. The most frequent coping strategies were active coping, social support, and avoidance. The study concluded that the psychological well-being of university students is associated with the conditions of the academic environment and the availability of institutional and social support. While sustained academic demands increase emotional vulnerability during emerging adulthood, functional coping strategies combined with university support promote emotional regulation.