Understanding coping and social support among U.S. college students during the pandemic: A 3-year examination of qualitative descriptions and their links to perceived health.

This study explored coping strategies and social support experiences reported by 1,003 U.S. college students across three academic years (2020–2023) during the COVID-19 pandemic, examining their associations with perceived physical and mental health. Social engagement and physical activity were the most commonly reported coping strategies, while many students felt distanced from others and experienced decreased support from friends, though some noted increased support over time. Physical health showed positive links with physical activity, work, and spirituality, whereas mental health was associated with social engagement, schoolwork, spirituality, and perceived social support, especially from friends. The findings highlight persistent heterogeneity in coping and enduring social challenges despite shifts toward in-person activities, suggesting the importance of individualized assessment and support for college students' well-being.