Psychophysiological and autonomic regulation in students with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system when studying during a pandemic

Relevance. The change in the psychophysiological state of students with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system during remote learning in the period of the COVID-19 pandemic has drawn particular attention from various researchers [2, 5, 6]. Currently, there is a noticeable increase in psychovegetative disorders and the formation of somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system due to the factors of the pandemic of a new coronavirus infection, which influences the psychophysiological status and academic performance.

Intention. The aim of the study was to assess the psychophysiological status and features of autonomic regulation in students with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system while studying at a university during the pandemic of the new coronavirus infection COVID-19.

Methodology. In total, 250 students of the University under the IPA were examined – 127 male and 123 female persons while studying at the university in the period from 2018 to 2022 (the survey from 12.10.2020 to 29.09.2021, coincided with the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated distance learning using electronic educational platforms). Symptoms of somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system were revealed in 19 students (a group of patients). In the study, we applied clinical and instrumental, psychophysiological, mathematical and statistical methods. Students were examined during and after distance learning.

Results and Discussion. Significant correlations of academic performance indicators with the indicator of situational anxiety, the activity of the well-being, activity, mood test and the test for the detection of autonomic dysfunction syndrome according to A.M. Vane (2003) were revealed. It was established that distance learning affects the regulation of organs and systems (circulation, central nervous system) and influences the psychophysiological status of students. In addition, the emergence of autonomic imbalance in some students affects their academic performance and contributes to the formation of somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.

Conclusion. The functional state of students with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system during training during the pandemic is characterized by a change in the psychophysiological status, autonomic regulation, which requires psychophysiological correction aimed at supporting sanogenesis and normalization of symptoms of somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, affecting the success of training.

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