Mental health in a campus context: a mixed methods approach to stigma and mental health knowledge

Abstract

The Jed Campus Framework presents a multi-faceted approach to how colleges and universities can provide quality mental health services to their students and enhance the support of the campus community. However, research has suggested that a significant barrier to students seeking help and utilizing om-campus resources is the fear of stigma associated with mental illness. One mitigating factor to stigma is knowledge about mental health-related issues or having personal contact with individuals who have diagnoses. The current study was interested in the levels of perceived public stigma, personal stigma, and mental health knowledge present on campus, which were measured by a survey to students, faculty, and staff to better understand the relationship between these factors. Additionally, focus groups were conducted with students with mental health diagnoses to get a sense of their experiences on campus relating to stigma and how policies and resources could better address their needs. The survey findings suggested that the more mental health knowledge individuals had, the lower their levels of personal stigma. Student focus groups echoed these findings and provided valuable insights for how campus can improve its approach to supporting student mental health.