Student Teachers and Mental Health: A Qualitative Study on Students’ Experiences Living With a Mental Health Condition

Abstract

Reports of college students living with mental health conditions are common, and the understanding of their connection to academic success is increasing. University campuses strive to meet the psychological needs of their students with a variety of institutionalized practices. However, a question can be raised about how much individual faculty members and colleges know about their specific students’ mental health needs and whether there are ways to assist those students at that level. This is a case study on a group of 17 student teachers in the College of Education at a university in the Southern United States who self-reported that they were living with symptoms of a mental health condition. Through individual interviews, the researchers asked student teachers to describe their symptoms and explain their perceptions of how they alleviate the symptoms to manage their life as a college student. Results of the study were reported thematically and categorized as (a) an increase in negative thoughts and behaviors, (b) absence of positive traits and abilities, and (c) self-identified coping strategies and external support. Discussion and recommendations regarding the findings are included.