‘When They Drop in and They Are Crying’: Experience of University Academics Supporting Students with Mental Health Problems

Background: University academics are often the first points of contact for students experiencing mental health problems (MHPs) because of the pre-existing relationship between academics and students. Aim: The aim of this review is to explore the experience of university academics who have supported students with MHPs. Methods: This systematic review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidance. Searches were conducted using six databases and were limited to peer-reviewed studies published in the English language between 2013 and 2023. Results: Thematic analyses identified three major themes: academics’ perceptions of mental health problems among students, the role of academics in supporting students and the academics’ perceived barriers to supporting students. Conclusions: Universities need to acknowledge the vulnerability of students’ mental health and prepare to respond appropriately. Improving the mental health literacy of university academics, and providing clarity about roles and mechanisms to support the mental health of university students will be crucial to achieve this.<p></p>