"I'm Not Lazy, I'm Depressed": Navigating Graduate School With Mental Health Challenges

• In Event: 25.083 - MTCC Roundtable Session Eight
  In Roundtable Session: 25.083-8 - Well-Being in Graduate School: Challenges and Support

Abstract

Though student mental health is a growing concern in higher education, there is limited research on depression and anxiety among graduate students. Additionally, we have limited knowledge about how the structure of graduate school affects student mental health. Using mattering as an analytical tool, this qualitative study examines how students with mental health challenges negotiate graduate education. Preliminary findings reveal that students are mired in an abyss of self-doubt in ways that hinder successful navigation through graduate school.

Authors

• Sarah E Kurz, University of Pittsburgh

• CARMEN Michele MCCALLUM, Eastern Michigan University

• V. Thandi Sule, Oakland University