Abstract:
Introduction:
Students in universities are exposed to various stressors which affect them to progress in their
studies. The sources of stress are varied and ranging from challenges resulting from family
background and history, the present circumstances and the uncertain future.
Purpose: The purpose of the study was to explore factors that contribute to stress among
students at a selected university in rural South Africa.
Method: This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach using an explorative design
to explore the factors contributing to stress among students at a selected university in South
Africa. The study utilised convenience sampling to select participants who met the criteria of
inclusion and in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Informed consent, confidentiality,
anonymity, privacy and protect participants from being harmed were observed in the study. Data
was analysed using Tesch method.
Results: The following themes were derived from data analysis: Personal, relationship
environmental, academic factors.
Recommendations: Students specific health promotion programmes should be introduced to
raise awareness about stress and management of it.
Conclusions: The study concludes that students experience high levels of stress during their
studies therefore it is important for the university health authorities to introduce stress
management programs for students.
