Lived Experiences of Mental Health in Higher Education: A Comparative Analysis of Determinants to Supports and Services

• Published in: American journal of orthopsychiatry 2021, Vol.91 (6), p.738-750
• Main Authors: Stegenga, Sondra M., Sinclair, James, Knowles, Christen, Storie, Sloan O., Seeley, John R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Academic achievement; College Students; Comparative analysis; Content analysis; Continuum of Care; Experiences (Events); Health education; Health problems; Higher Education; Human; Lived Experience; Mental Health; Mental health services; Needs; Policy Making; Recruitment; Stakeholder; Stigma
• ISSN: 0002-9432; 1939-0025
• DOI: 10.1037/ort0000575

Due to increasing incidence of mental health challenges in college students and its relation to poorer student outcomes (e.g., recruitment, retention, graduation), higher education institutions have turned their attention toward the needs of students experiencing mental health challenges (Collins & Mowbray, 2005). In attempts to ameliorate poorer student outcomes, some states have investigated the impact of mental health on those enrolled in higher education as well as the needs for supports and services for those impacted (e.g., Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission [OHECC], Office of Academic Policy and Authorization, 2018). However, despite these initiatives, limited empirical research is available related to the lived experiences of individuals with mental health challenges in higher education settings; including the supports and barriers they may experience while navigating these complex settings. This study begins to address this knowledge gap by using qualitative content analysis to examine and compare key stakeholder lived experiences related to mental health challenges in higher education, including the similarities and differences regarding service and support needs, determinants to usage (support and barriers), and recommendations for future research and improving the continuum of care. Considerations for policy, practice, and future research are provided. Public Policy Relevance Statement In spite of the link between mental health challenges and poorer outcomes in higher education (recruitment, retention, graduation), there is a dearth of research on the contributing factors to successful outcomes, or lack thereof. This study expands the research base by identifying potential factors underpinning student outcomes, access to services, and participation in higher education settings. Ultimately these findings give light to a range of themes relevant to improving precision of interventions, supports, policies, and directions for future research.